Celtic striker Kelechi Iheanacho scored in his return from injury during the club's 2–1 win over Dundee at Dens Park, reigniting hopes of a strong finish to the season. The Nigerian forward, who joined Celtic on a free transfer in September, began impressively with two goals in his first three Scottish Premiership appearances against Kilmarnock and Motherwell. However, recurring fitness issues disrupted his rhythm, limiting his playing time and impact in the months that followed. Former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie has voiced continued belief in Iheanacho's quality, praising his finishing ability when at full fitness. "I like Kelechi Iheanacho because when he's up to speed and up to fitness, he's top. He's a proper, proper striker," McAvennie said in an interview with the Scottish Sun. Despite Iheanacho's stop-start campaign, McAvennie acknowledged the strong performances of teammates like Kyogo Furuhashi and Liel Abada, suggesting one of them is likely to be named Celtic's Player of the Year. Iheanacho's goal against Dundee was a timely reminder of his potential, coming at a crucial stage as Celtic defend their Premiership title. The 29-year-old will aim to maintain fitness and contribute more consistently in the final matches of the season.
The most striking aspect of Kelechi Iheanacho's situation at Celtic is not his injury woes, but the persistence of belief in his ability despite minimal output — a testament to the lasting impression of raw finishing quality even in short bursts. McAvennie's praise underscores how highly pure goal-poaching ability is valued, even when obscured by fitness setbacks and limited minutes. For Celtic, Iheanacho's return to scoring form, however modest, adds depth at a critical phase of the title run-in, especially if Kyogo or other frontline options face fatigue or injury. Nigerian fans watching from afar should take encouragement from the fact that Iheanacho remains capable of decisive moments at the highest level of Scottish football, even at 29 and after prolonged absence. His ability to influence games upon return suggests he still has value, both for club and potentially for the Super Eagles in upcoming qualifiers, provided he can sustain fitness. The next few weeks will reveal whether this comeback goal marks the start of a meaningful resurgence or remains an isolated highlight in a disrupted season.
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