Former Scotland and Celtic midfielder Scott Allan believes Celtic can enjoy a very strong end to the season if they manage to keep Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho fit and firing, Footynaija.com reports.
Iheanacho reminded the Scottish Premiership of his quality when he came off the bench to score a match-winner against Dundee FC for Martin O’Neil’s side over the weekend.
However, in a season where the Nigeria international has been hampered by multiple injury setbacks, the Hoops faithful have sadly been unable to consistently enjoy the game-changing displays they witnessed when he first arrived at the club.
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For Allan, Iheanacho’s return bodes well for his former club as the Super Eagles attacker is clearly Martin O’Neil’s best finisher when compared to the other available attacking options currently at the club.
Scott Allan explains why Kelechi Iheanacho needs to stay fit
“I think if you can keep Iheanacho fit, that’s the million dollar question. Sometimes you see him then you don’t see him for another three weeks,” the former midfielder said in a chat with BBC’s Scottish Football Podcast.
“But if he is fit, he’s the most instinctive and best finisher they have in that number nine position. I think you see that at Dundee, the times that Cvancara does have real chances and has half chances, he’s not a killer.
“He doesn’t look like he’s got real conviction in his finishing, and that’s why he’s had a loan deal here. He comes to Celtic and it’s a stop gap and you’re hoping.
“But for me, Iheanacho, if they can keep him fit, has to lead the line. He links the game better for Celtic as well for me.”
Iheanacho’s appearance against Dundee over the weekend was only his seventh outing in the Scottish Premiership this season, a testament to how much lack of fitness and form have disrupted his debut campaign in Scotland.
On most occasions when he’s been available, Iheanacho has proven himself capable of delivering the goods. The big question for Celtic and O’Neil is whether they can manage his fitness well enough and ensure his availability for the remainder of the season.
