Iheanacho: Ex-Aston Villa chief reveals key to Celtic stay for in-form Super Eagles star

Kelechi Iheanacho is beginning to change the conversation around his future at Celtic after another important contribution in the Scottish Premiership title race, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian forward came off the bench against Hibernian to score the winning goal as Celtic secured a crucial three points, continuing a strong run that has revived hopes of a longer stay in Glasgow.

Iheanacho has now scored four goals in his last five appearances, a sharp contrast to the difficult early months of his spell at the club when injuries repeatedly interrupted his momentum.

The 29-year-old joined Celtic on a free transfer in September 2025 after leaving Sevilla by mutual consent. He signed a one-year contract running until June 30, 2026, with Celtic holding the option to extend the deal by another season.

His recent form has arrived at an important time. Celtic are yet to decide whether they will activate that extension clause, while uncertainty also surrounds the managerial situation at the club. Interim boss Martin O’Neill is expected to step down at the end of the campaign, meaning a new permanent manager could have the final say on Iheanacho’s future.

Former Aberdeen, Everton and Aston Villa chief Keith Wyness believes the striker is finally showing why Celtic took a chance on him.

Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness said: “It’s funny when his option is coming up to be exercised or not he starts performing.

“We always said if Iheanacho scores in the big games, he’s going to get that option exercised. He’s doing it again. He’s done it a few weeks now and he’s becoming a fan favourite.”

Iheanacho: Fitness concern could decide Celtic future

While Wyness praised Iheanacho’s impact in recent weeks, he also pointed to one major concern Celtic are likely to consider before offering him another year at the club.

“The club would find it very hard not to exercise that option,” he added. “Of course, there’s got to be health reasons as to whether his legs can stand up or not. His old hamstrings are the question mark, but he’s certainly doing it right now.”

That fitness issue has been a recurring theme in recent seasons for Iheanacho. His early days at Celtic was initially disrupted by muscular problems, limiting his rhythm and forcing the club to carefully manage his minutes. Despite that, his recent performances have reminded supporters of the qualities that once made him one of Nigeria’s most highly-rated forwards.

In 10 Scottish Premiership appearances this season, Iheanacho has scored four goals with an expected goals tally of 4.30. He has also created three big chances and completed 50 percent of his dribbles.

O’Neill recently admitted that ‘fitness is the most important thing’ for Iheanacho as the striker continues to fight for consistency at a decisive stage of the season.

Despite all the talks, though, Iheanacho will want to focus on helping Celtic finish the campaign strongly. The former Leicester City forward has publicly played down discussions about his contract situation, insisting his priority is winning the Scottish Premiership title.

Celtic will be crowned champions if they managed to win their remaining league games against Rangers, Motherwell and Hearts. Martin O’Neill’s men also have Scottish Cup hopes as they face Dunfermline Athletic in the final on May 23.