Celtic interim head coach Martin O’Neill has delivered an upbeat fitness update on Nigeria forward Kelechi Iheanacho, opening the door for the striker to earn a starting berth as the campaign heads into its final stretch, Footynaija.com reports.
Iheanacho joined Celtic as a free agent in September 2025 but saw his early momentum disrupted by injury setbacks. His return to form has since been steady, and he has scored six goals since arriving in Glasgow.
The 29-year-old’s path took a huge turn last weekend. He scored a brace as Celtic defeated St Mirren 6-2 in extra time in the Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden, booking the Hoops a spot in the final against Dunfermline Athletic on May 23.
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Those goals have intensified calls from supporters to see Iheanacho in the starting lineup, and O’Neill has responded positively to that pressure.
Speaking ahead of the home fixture against Falkirk, per BBC Sport, the veteran manager left little doubt about where his thinking stands.
“Overall, he has made a big impact in the last couple of weeks. And it looks as if he’s staying fit,” O’Neill said.
“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.”
O’Neill acknowledged competition for the central role remains real, with Daizen Maeda having impressed in that position, but conceded there is now a strong case to hand Iheanacho the nod from the off.
Celtic’s season remains on two fronts. The club sit third in the Premiership, three points behind leaders Hearts, making every remaining fixture critical. For Iheanacho and the Super Eagles, a strong finish to the season could not come at a better time.
