Kelechi Iheanacho has enjoyed a flying start to life at Celtic.
The Nigerian forward is set for his fourth outing this weekend against Hibs in the Scottish Premiership, already boasting three goal contributions since his arrival. His first came from the penalty spot against Kilmarnock, followed by an assist in the Premier Sports Cup win over Partick Thistle. Most recently, he came off the bench to rescue a point away to Red Star Belgrade in midweek.
Speaking to the media at Lennoxtown on Friday, Iheanacho reflected on his early days with the Hoops and highlighted a few teammates who have left a big impression.
Asked who had stood out to him most, the 28-year-old named Celtic icons James Forrest and Callum McGregor, along with former Leicester colleague Kasper Schmeichel.
“Yeah, to be fair, I said to James when I first came in that I’d been hearing his name for a long, long time since I came to the UK. He’s still here, still playing, and he’s a legend at this club. It’s a real pleasure for me,” Iheanacho explained.
It’s no surprise he feels the influence of Forrest and McGregor — two modern-day Celtic legends. Forrest has collected 26 major domestic trophies, more than any player in the club’s history and one more than Lisbon Lion Bobby Lennox. McGregor isn’t far behind with 24 honours of his own.
In terms of appearances, Forrest sits on 536 games for the club, while McGregor has 527. Given his regular starting role, the captain is likely to surpass his teammate this season.
“And obviously the captain (McGregor) has been here a long time as well. And of course, linking up with my friend Kasper again makes me really happy,” Iheanacho added.
Leave a Reply