Kelechi Iheanacho’s late penalty winner for Celtic against Kilmarnock has continued to draw reactions, with former Chelsea defender Tom Boyd praising the Nigerian striker’s courage, Footynaija.com reports.
Iheanacho, who recently joined Brendan Rodgers’ side, had been battling questions about sharpness after a difficult spell in Spain and England.
His cool finish from the spot in the 95th minute not only gave Celtic all three points but also offered fans a glimpse of a forward eager to rebuild his confidence.
The Nigerian had earlier spoken about feeling fit and ready to make an impact, and Rodgers highlighted the importance of having a player willing to take responsibility in tense moments.
Celtic supporters, already lifted by the dramatic finish, saw a debut that carried the promise of consistency.
“For Iheanacho to step up on his debut and take a penalty to win the game in the last minute says a lot about his character,” the former Celtic captain said in a report by STV News.
Boyd, who captained Celtic to some of their most memorable triumphs, stressed that the moment could set the tone for the rest of the campaign.
“In previous games our penalties haven’t been too great, so hopefully it can be a light to spread through the club at this moment in time,” he added.
Coming off a tough year that included a frustrating stint at Sevilla and a quiet loan spell at Middlesbrough, finding the net in such dramatic fashion instantly gave him a platform to build on.
With Rodgers’ trust, a supportive dressing room, and fans already buzzing about his impact, the striker looks to have found the right stage for a recovery.