Celts have landed the former English Premier League striker on a free transfer
Kelechi Iheanacho(Image: Getty Images)
Celtic is the perfect platform for Kelechi Iheanacho to try and rediscover the kind of form that saw him burst onto the scene at Manchester City 10 years ago.
That’s the view of Nigeria legend and former Super Eagles head coach Finidi George, who reckons the 28-year-old can flourish under Brendan Rodgers, having previously played for the Irishman at Leicester.
The Hoops were in the market for another senior striker all summer and their need became greater on deadline day after selling Adam Idah to Swansea City for £7million.
However, Denmark international Kasper Dolberg snubbed Celtic in favour of a return to Ajax and it wasn’t until the morning after the summer window slam shut that the Parkhead giants officially snapped up Iheanacho on a free transfer following his release from Leicester.
And while fans are unenthused about the arrival of a forward who has scored just four goals across the past two seasons, George – who appeared for Nigeria at two World Cups in the 1990s – has backed his compatriot to make a splash in Glasgow’s East End.
Speaking to Footy-Africa, he said: “Kelechi is a proven talent, and I think Celtic is the perfect stage for him to showcase that again.
“Sometimes players just need the right environment, a club that believes in them. He has the quality, and I believe he will deliver.
“Celtic play attacking football, and Kelechi thrives in that kind of setup. It’s not easy to come back after a tough spell, but great players always find a way.
“He has the hunger, and this is his chance.”
Iheanacho’s lack of minutes in recent seasons have seen him fall out of the Nigeria set-up in the last two international breaks.
But in a clip shared on social media, the striker has showed that he is raring to go if he is selected when Celtic return to action against Kilmarnock in seven days time.
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The ex Man City, Leicester and Sevilla frontman is seen being put through his paces before demonstrating his finishing prowess in front of goal.
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