Celtic manager raises doubts over Iheanacho's current performance levels despite his decisive late goal

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Iheanacho

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By Enitan Abdultawab

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Kelechi Iheanacho has drawn criticism from manager Martin O’Neill, who believes the Nigerian forward needs to perform better at this point in his career, even though he scored a vital late goal to help Celtic FC win on Sunday.

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With a goal in the 82nd minute to secure a 2-1 victory over Dundee FC and maintain Celtic’s solid position in the title chase, Iheanacho dramatically snapped a 182-day goal drought. However, O’Neill raised concerns about the striker’s overall progress in his post-match comments rather than focusing solely on the game-winning moment.

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“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.

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While critical, O’Neill acknowledged the forward’s strengths, particularly his ability to lead the line and retain possession under pressure.

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“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.

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Reflecting on Iheanacho’s pedigree, the manager pointed to his past at the highest level, saying, “He’s played for Manchester City, some time ago like everything else. But that goal will do him the world of good.”

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The actual game was fiercely contested. Yang Hyun-Jun gave Celtic an early lead, but Simon Murray’s penalty kick from Dundee tied the score. Iheanacho came through late in the game, securing all three points with a strong left-footed effort.

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With the win, Celtic are now only three points behind league leaders Heart of Midlothian FC, while Rangers FC are still in the running for the championship.

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