Celtic striker Kelechi Iheanacho has been backed for a potential return to the Nigeria national team following his recent impressive performances.
The 29-year-old has struggled with injuries throughout the season, particularly ongoing hamstring issues that have restricted his game time since joining in the summer.
Despite limited opportunities, Iheanacho has recorded six goals and one assist in 18 appearances for the Hoops.
He delivered a standout display in the Scottish Cup semi-final against St Mirren, scoring twice in extra time to help underline his quality in front of goal.
Former Nigeria international Mutiu Adepoju has since called for the forward to be brought back into the national team setup, citing his current form for the Hoops as deserving of recognition.
Speaking via Footy Africa, Adepoju said: “Kelechi has always been a very good player and a good scorer who has done very well over the years. Unfortunately, these past few years he has not been finding it easy and all that.”
“I’m happy that he is coming back and he is doing very well in Celtic. I just believe he will be able to sustain that and continue.”
“Experience matters, and if he is doing very well and I believe if the handlers of the national team see and find him worthy, then he can still come back. I believe he has that ability to come back to the team.”
Iheanacho built a strong reputation during his time in England with Manchester City and Leicester City, and despite injuries, he has still demonstrated flashes of his ability since moving to Celtic.
It’s becoming clear that Iheanacho should be Celtic’s first-choice striker. With three goals in his last three matches, he looks sharp, and his second goal on Sunday was arguably the best of his six this season. As the team heads into the final five league games, keeping him fit could be crucial, because Celtic look stronger with him in the side – and they may need someone like him to step up and carry them to the title.