Former Chris Sutton believes Kelechi Iheanacho has the quality to make a bigger impact at Celtic F.C. despite recent competition for places, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Iheanacho made a bright start to life at Celtic, registering two goals and an assist in his first four appearances, but his momentum was disrupted by a hamstring injury that limited his playing time.
The 29-year-old has since rediscovered form, notably scoring twice in Celtic’s Scottish Cup semi-final victory over St Mirren F.C..
However, interim head coach Martin O'Neill has continued to favour Daizen Maeda as his primary attacking option.
Sutton, though, insists Iheanacho offers a different dimension to the team, particularly in his ability to retain possession and bring others into play.
“That pressing is something which Martin O’Neill feels that Iheanacho can’t do,” Sutton said. “He can give Celtic greater quality, in terms of holding the ball in.”
Iheanacho has scored six goals in 19 appearances across all competitions for the Hoops this season, and will be hoping to build on his recent performances as the campaign reaches its decisive stage.