Manager Martin O’Neill has expressed dissatisfaction with the overall progress of Kelechi Iheanacho despite the striker scoring a late winner to secure victory for Celtic FC.
Iheanacho netted in the 82nd minute to hand Celtic a dramatic 2–1 win and end a 182-day goal drought, delivering a crucial moment for the team in a tightly contested match. However, O’Neill suggested after the game that more is expected from the Nigerian forward at this stage of his career.
“He has had some issues with injuries. At 29, he should be at the peak of his career rather than sometimes scratching around,” the Celtic boss said.
Despite the criticism, the manager acknowledged the striker’s strengths, particularly his ability to shield the ball and bring teammates into play.
“He scores, he can hold the ball up and is really good at that. He maybe can’t run the channels much but at the end of the day he can hold the ball up and that’s his trademark,” he added.
Reflecting on Iheanacho’s past at the highest level of the game, O’Neill said the goal could help restore confidence.
“He’s played for Manchester City, some time ago like everything else. But that goal will do him the world of good.”
The Nigerian forward delivered at a crucial moment during Celtic’s clash with Dundee FC. Celtic had taken an early lead through Yang Hyun-Jun, but Dundee equalised after Simon Murray converted a penalty.
With the match finely balanced, Iheanacho struck a powerful left-footed effort late in the game to restore Celtic’s lead and seal the 2–1 victory.
The win keeps Celtic firmly in the title race, sitting three points behind Heart of Midlothian FC, while Rangers FC remain close contenders.
Although questions persist about his consistency, Iheanacho’s decisive strike could prove pivotal for both the player and the club as the season approaches its final stretch.
