Celtic fans have caught their first glimpse of Kelechi Iheanacho since the striker signed a free agent deal with the club following the closure of the summer transfer window.

The Nigerian international was spotted in Manchester, putting in the work with UEFA-licensed coach Seedorf Kduah during an individual training session. Iheanacho looked sharp and focused as he builds fitness ahead of a potential debut for Brendan Rodgers’ side.

With Adam Idah departing for Swansea and Celtic failing to sign a replacement during the window itself, Iheanacho’s late arrival has taken on even more importance. The 27-year-old was registered in time for the Europa League squad and could make his first appearance in green and white when Celtic travel to face Kilmarnock at Rugby Park next week.

When he finally arrived in Glasgow to be unveiled in the Hoops, his interview will drop on Celtic TV.

The session in Manchester shows Iheanacho keeping himself in shape and suggests he may not be far off from match readiness. Of course, individual training can’t replicate competitive minutes, but his presence will be welcomed by a Celtic squad light on natural centre-forwards.

He becomes one of the few forward options left at Rodgers’ disposal, with Daizen Maeda, Johnny Kenny, and now Iheanacho carrying the European load through a congested autumn fixture list.

This comes amid rising scrutiny on Celtic’s summer dealings, with club insiders reportedly unhappy with Rodgers’ public questioning of the recruitment strategy,  a subject that has dominated headlines since the transfer window shut.

1 COMMENT

  1. Welcome to Celtic FC, Kelechi

    If you’re looking for a role model that had similar club issues to yourself and went on to be a sensational player for Celtic….Mr Chris Sutton.

    HH

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