Martin O’Neill was quick to single out Kelechi Iheanacho after the striker came off the bench to secure Celtic’s 2-1 win over Hibernian at Easter Road.
It was a game that needed something different in the second half. Celtic had plenty of the ball but were not finding a way through, even with the extra man after Hibs went down to ten.
Then came the moment. Iheanacho reacted quickest from a corner, showing composure in a crowded area to bring the ball down and finish cleanly.
O’Neill has seen that impact building over recent weeks.
He said: (Sky Sports), “Terrific, really. Absolutely terrific.
“He’s been magnificent really since he’s out at Dundee. He comes on and wins the game for us there. Big impact there in the Scottish Cup semi-final as well too.
“He carried it on here and I’m delighted he is a proper centre-forward.
“You could see that there in the course of his career.”
Celtic needed a focal point late on, and Iheanacho gave them that. While others were linking play around the box, he stayed central and waited for the right moment.
That difference showed in the goal. The ball dropped awkwardly, but his touch set it, and the finish was calm. No rush, no panic.
It also changes how Celtic can approach the final games. With Daizen Maeda stretching teams and Iheanacho offering presence in the box, there are now two clear options depending on the game state.
That matters with three matches left. Defences will sit deeper, especially at Celtic Park, and having someone who can deal with crowded areas becomes more useful.
O’Neill’s comments reflect that shift. Iheanacho is not just an option now. He is a player who can decide games when space is tight.
