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Former Cardiff City and Burnley star Steven Thompson has delivered a strong endorsement of Kelechi Iheanacho, praising the forward’s all-round game in a way that could yet catch the attention of Éric Chelle, Footynaija reports.
Speaking after Celtic’s dramatic Scottish Cup semi-final win over St Mirren, Thompson was clear in his assessment of the Nigerian striker’s quality.
Iheanacho came off the bench and scored twice in extra time as Celtic secured a 6-2 victory, having been held at 2-2 in normal time.
🚨🇳🇬 HE HAS DONE IT AGAIN!!
— GNB OFFICIAL (@GHNaijaBallers) April 19, 2026
TWO GOALS IN FIVE MINUTES FOR IHEANACHO 🤯🔥🔥
pic.twitter.com/496cYvO0u0
Introduced late in the second half, Iheanacho replaced Yang Hyun-jun and quickly changed the rhythm of the contest. His movement, composure, and finishing proved decisive, helping Celtic book their place in the final and underlining his growing influence in the squad.
On BBC Sportsound, Thompson did not hold back in his praise.
“We talk about his goals, which were both really well taken,” he said. “But his link play shows a knowledge of the game that the others don’t bring. He’s the most rounded striker at Celtic by a mile.”
That verdict is significant, particularly given Iheanacho’s recent journey. After a difficult spell at Sevilla, the forward arrived in Glasgow as a free agent last September and made an immediate impression. He scored twice in his first three league games, offering early signs that he had rediscovered his sharpness. However, injury soon interrupted that momentum, limiting his impact during a crucial period of the season.
Now fully fit again, the former Leicester City striker appears to be rebuilding his form at just the right time, with Celtic chasing both the league title and Scottish Cup.
And @CelticFC are back in front in extra time! 🍀
— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) April 19, 2026
A great header from Kelechi Iheanacho 👏#ScottishCup pic.twitter.com/0K9h6lsmel
His resurgence comes amid continued absence from Nigeria’s national team. Chelle has overlooked Iheanacho for major competitions, including the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations favouring a more intense, high-energy attacking group built around players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
Yet Thompson’s comments may add weight to the argument for a recall. With upcoming fixtures offering a chance for experimentation, Iheanacho’s recent performances could serve as a timely reminder of his unique qualities. One defined as not just a finisher, but as a forward capable of linking play and delivering in decisive moments.
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