Kelechi Iheanacho: Super Eagles star backed for bigger role at Celtic

Celtic interim head coach Martin O’Neill has shared an encouraging fitness update on Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho as the season enters its decisive phase, Afrik-Foot reports.

Iheanacho joined the Scottish champions on a free transfer last summer after a difficult spell at Sevilla, but his debut campaign in Scotland has been majorly disrupted by injuries. 

The 29-year-old has featured just 18 times across all competitions this term due to multiple injury setbacks. However, there are signs of improvement in recent weeks as he has now come through Celtic’s last five matches without any new setback.

The Super Eagles forward grabbed the spotlight last weekend with a late brace in Celtic’s 6-2 victory over St Mirren. Both goals came in extra time and helped send the Hoops into a fourth straight Scottish Cup final, taking his tally to six goals for the season.

Despite that impact, Iheanacho has mostly been used from the bench. He has made only eight starts across all competitions, with his last one coming in March during a 2-0 loss to Dundee United.

O’Neill opens the door for Iheanacho’s starting spot

Celtic welcome Falkirk to Celtic Park in a Scottish Premiership clash later today, as they aim to reduce the deficit to league leaders Heart of Midlothian, with only a handful of games remaining.

Speaking ahead of the match, O’Neill praised Iheanacho’s recent contributions and also provided a major hint that the Nigerian forward could be rewarded with a starting role.

“Overall, he has made a big impact in the last couple of weeks. And it looks as if he’s staying fit”, the Celtic boss told BBC Sport.

“You can see that he’s been a player. His control is really good… honestly, I’ve been really pleased with him. He could easily start in the games.”

Celtic have five league matches left as they push to retain the title they won last season, beginning with today’s clash against Falkirk and ending with a potential decider against Hearts.

The Hoops will then wrap up their campaign in the Scottish Cup final against Dunfermline Athletic, with Iheanacho expected to play a key role as they chase more silverware this season.