Super Eagles: “I couldn’t disagree with that” – O’Neill gives verdict on Iheanacho after St Mirren win 

Celtic head coach Martin O’Neill has shared his thoughts on Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho after his role in the club’s run to the Scottish Cup final on Sunday, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigerian striker proved to be the difference-maker as Celtic booked their place in a fourth straight final, scoring a brace in an emphatic 6–2 extra-time victory to keep their hopes of silverware alive this season.

The Hoops got off to a flying start, with Daizen Maeda finding the net just 57 seconds into the game, before Anthony Ralston added a second later in the first half to give them a comfortable lead.

However, St Mirren fought back strongly in the second half and Mikael Mandron scored twice to level the game and force an additional 30 minutes of action.

Iheanacho then stepped up and took control of the contest with two quick fire goals, while Luke McCowan and Benjamin Nygren wrapped things up to seal an emphatic win for Celtic.

Iheanacho: Celtic coach O’Neill hails Super Eagles star’s impact

Kelechi Iheanacho arrived at Scottish champions Celtic on a free transfer last summer, but an injury-hit campaign has raised questions about his long-term future at the club. However, his recent return to form in front of goal could play a big role in determining whether he stays beyond this season.

Speaking after the match, head coach Martin O’Neill was full of praise for the Nigerian forward and hinted that he could be pushing his way back into the starting lineup in their upcoming matches.

“I couldn’t disagree with that. Obviously, he’s had the few injury problems. I think I said to you that sometimes if you felt as if he started the games, he might not see the game through. We’ve got a couple like that at the moment”, O’Neill said via The Daily Mail.

“Today his goals have been big for us. Really big. He says he is completely fit. And I’m not completely sure, but he was brilliant for us. He took the goals magnificently. You can see why he’s had a career.”

Celtic have now booked their place in another Scottish Cup final and will be aiming to go one better this time after falling short against Aberdeen in last season’s final.

The Hoops will face Dunfermline Athletic in next month’s final, presenting Iheanacho with a great chance to win his first trophy since his arrival at the club.