Kelechi Iheanacho has played his way into the conversation ahead of Celtic’s clash with Falkirk, after another strong impact from the bench in the Scottish Cup semi-final against St Mirren.
The striker came on late in that game and took his chances well, continuing a run that has seen him influence matches without starting them. It follows a similar moment at Dundee, where he stepped off the bench and found the goal when Celtic needed it.
That recent form has put pressure on the starting spot. Daizen Maeda and Tomas Cvancara have been used through the middle, offering energy and pressing from the front, but the role demands something different depending on the game. Against a side that may sit in, the type of chances created can suit a player who operates in tighter spaces.
Iheanacho’s minutes this season have been limited. He has not played full matches often, and that has shaped how he is used. But his return from injury has brought sharper movement in the box and cleaner finishing.
Speaking ahead of the Falkirk match, Martin O’Neill addressed Iheanacho’s form and whether it could lead to a starting role.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “Actually, it’s more important as the weeks have gone on. He came on at Dundee, scored the goal probably at that stage in the proceedings, probably the only one that would have got us the goal at the time. He’s followed that up there by scoring some goals, took them brilliantly.
“And, yes, I think he would like to start in the game. Daizen Maeda started this press from centre-forward position, got us the goal early on. And, yeah, there’s definitely a case for thinking about Iheanacho starting in matches. I think he would love to do it.
“Not having completed it in 90 minutes for quite some considerable time, as I thought. But he also started as well up at Dundee United. I don’t think it was his fault. He had a great chance. The goalkeeper made a really good save after half an hour in the game.
“But, I’m not saying it didn’t work for the team as such. But, overall, he has made a big impact in the last couple of weeks. And it looks as if he’s staying fit.”
That last part matters. Fitness has been the issue for much of his season. When he has been available, his output has been steady, even if the minutes have not been.
Against Falkirk, the choice comes down to what Celtic need from the first whistle. If the plan is to press high and disrupt early, Maeda still fits. If the game becomes about working openings in a packed defence, Iheanacho offers a different threat.
His movement inside the box is sharper than most in the squad. He does not need many touches to create a chance. That can change a game that feels slow.
O’Neill has left the door open. Iheanacho has given him a reason to think about it.
