Celtic boss delivers honest verdict about struggling Super Eagles star

Martin O’Neill has admitted that Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho is ‘a bit of a concern’ as questions grow about the Nigerian’s fitness and lack of game time, Afrik-Foot reports.

Iheanacho joined Celtic on a one-season deal on UEFA deadline day in September. The Scottish champions also have the option to extend his contract for another year.

The 29-year-old made an instant impact after arriving in Glasgow. He scored a dramatic stoppage-time penalty to secure a 2-1 win over Kilmarnock FC at Rugby Park. It was the perfect start for the former Manchester City FC and Leicester City FC forward.

Super Eagles and Celtic striker Kelechi Iheanacho. Copyright: xJamiexJohnstonxIMAHO

He also found the net in a 1-1 Europa League draw against Red Star Belgrade in Serbia later that month. Soon after, he scored again in a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Motherwell FC at Parkhead.

There were high hopes for Iheanacho, especially after he had been released by Sevilla FC before Celtic moved quickly to sign him.

However, his bright start has faded.

Fitness worries for Super Eagles’ Iheanacho

Since early October, goals have been hard to come by for Iheanacho. His first-team appearances have become rare, and he has struggled to make a strong impact.

The striker suffered a hamstring injury during the disappointing 3-1 defeat to St Mirren FC in the Premier Sports League Cup Final in mid-December. He limped off early in that match and has mostly been used as a substitute since then.

With his contract slowly running down, O’Neill has now spoken honestly about the situation.

“I don’t think Kelechi has played that much during the course of the season, to tell you the truth,” he said via Daily Record.

“But I think he’s got a good ability to hold it up.”It’s just in terms of full fitness and things, that’s a bit of a concern.”

Iheanacho was not included in the matchday squad for the recent 2-2 draw at Ibrox. He will now hope to return to action when Celtic face Aberdeen tonight.The next few weeks could be very important for Iheanacho, both for his fitness and for his future at the club.