Celtic manager Martin O’Neill explains Kelechi Iheanacho struggles, citing fitness issues and competition for places limiting his game time this season

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has attributed Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho’s struggles this season to fitness concerns and stiff competition for places at the Scottish club.

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Iheanacho, 29, joined Celtic in the summer after terminating a three-year contract with Sevilla, where he spent just one season.

The striker made an impressive start, contributing three goals in four appearances, but a hamstring injury has limited his impact since then.

O’Neill told Daily Record: “I don’t think he has played that much during the course of the season, to tell you the truth. But I think he’s got a good ability to hold it up. It is just in terms of full fitness and things, that’s a bit of a concern. I do feel for him a little bit, because my job is not to please everyone here at the football club. To be perfectly honest, I don’t think he’s had a proper chance, because I thought there were other people who may be better equipped for this league at this minute.”

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The manager’s comments highlight the challenge for Iheanacho to secure regular playing time, despite his evident talent and early contributions.

Fans and analysts will be watching to see if the Nigerian striker can regain full fitness and make a sustained impact for Celtic as the season progresses.