Iheanacho challenged to improve after Celtic defeat

Nigeria forward Kelechi Iheanacho became the centre of attraction after Celtic slumped to a 2-0 Scottish Premier League defeat against Dundee United two days ago.

The defeat left the Hoops third on the table with 61 points, five fewer than leaders Hearts, who have collected 66 points from 20 wins, six draws, and five defeats.

Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton has come out to admit he was not impressed with the performance of Iheanacho, who was later subbed off in the 57th minute for Sebastian Tounekti.

‘I still think Iheanacho is miles off it’

“It just shows you what a mess, what a muddle Celtic are in. And that’s not ideal. I’ve seen a lot of stuff online, people saying, well, he’s our best striker, Iheanacho,” said Sutton as quoted by the Record Celtic podcast.

“But I still think he’s miles off it. I think he does some good things in terms of his link up is OK at times. But I think there were times, and having played that position, I do know a little bit about sending a forward play, I think there were times in the first half where he was just downright lazy.”

Iheanacho didn’t work hard enough

Sutton added: “And he didn’t work hard enough when balls were being played forward to actually get in a position where he could even be challenging for a ball and a knock down.

“I think maybe fatigue had something to do with that. But it’s been the story of Celtic season in the final third.”

However, after the game, Celtic coach Martin O’Neill defended his choice to start Iheanacho. O’Neill maintained the Nigerian’s recent return from hamstring issues, paired with sharp displays in training, earned him a spot in the XI.

The Nigerian attacker signed for Celtic on a free last summer; however, he has been plagued by recurring injury setbacks since moving to the club.