Sutton Backs Iheanacho To Bring More Than Just Goals

Former Celtic striker turned pundit Chris Sutton has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding Kelechi Iheanacho’s role at Celtic Park, insisting that the Nigerian forward possesses the quality to contribute far more than his current minutes suggest.

Iheanacho made a blistering start to his Celtic career, recording two goals and one assist in his first four appearances for the Scottish Premiership side.

His early impact hinted at a player ready to take the league by storm, but a hamstring injury derailed his momentum and drastically reduced his playing time.

Now fully fit, the 29-year-old has begun to rediscover his sharpness. Most recently, he netted a crucial brace in Celtic’s Scottish Cup semi-final triumph over St Mirren, reminding everyone of his lethal finishing ability.

Despite that resurgence, interim head coach Martin O’Neill continues to favour Japanese winger Daizen Maeda as his primary attacking weapon.

Maeda’s relentless pressing and defensive work rate have seemingly earned him the nod ahead of Iheanacho for the central role.

But Sutton believes O’Neill is overlooking a key tactical asset. “That pressing is something which Martin O’Neill feels that Iheanacho can’t do,” Sutton was quoted as saying by 67 Hail Hail. “He can give Celtic greater quality, in terms of holding the ball in.”

According to Sutton, while Maeda’s energy is valuable in disrupting opposition defences, Iheanacho’s ability to receive the ball under pressure, retain possession, and bring teammates into play offers a different dimension – one that Celtic could benefit from, especially in tightly contested matches where composure on the ball is paramount.

So far this season, Iheanacho has scored six goals in 19 appearances across all competitions for the Hoops.

Though his tally is respectable, Sutton argues that with a consistent run as the central focal point, the former Manchester City man could elevate both his own output and the team’s overall attacking fluidity.

As Celtic continue to chase silverware on multiple fronts, the debate over who should lead the line – the tenacious Maeda or the technically gifted Iheanacho – looks set to run on. For Sutton, the answer is clear: quality over chase.