O’Neill Ready to Unleash Iheanacho in Celtic’s Title Push

Celtic boss Martin O’Neill is preparing to turn to Kelechi Iheanacho as the club enters its final six defining fixtures in pursuit of a league and Cup double.

The Nigerian striker came off the bench to rescue the champions in Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final, scoring twice in extra time during a dramatic 6-2 victory over St Mirren at Hampden.

Celtic had seen their 2-0 lead wiped out in regulation by Mikael Mandron’s brace, but Iheanacho’s introduction in the 83rd minute proved decisive.

He powered home a header from James Forrest’s cross before adding a composed left-foot finish, sparking a whirlwind spell in which Celtic netted four times in six minutes. Luke McCowan and Benjamin Nygren also struck to seal a place in the May 23 final against Neil Lennon’s Dunfermline.

Iheanacho, who joined Celtic from Sevilla last September, has endured injury setbacks and managed just four goals in 16 appearances prior to Sunday. But O’Neill admitted the 29-year-old has now made a strong case for a starting role.

‘I couldn’t disagree with that,’ O’Neill told the Daily Mail.

‘Obviously, he’s had a few injury problems. Sometimes if you felt as if he started the games, he might not see the game through. On this occasion, his goals have been big for us. Really big. He says he is completely fit. And I’m not completely sure, but he was brilliant for us. He took the goals magnificently. You can see why he’s had a career.’

All eyes now turn to O’Neill’s team selection for Saturday’s league clash with Falkirk at Parkhead, as Celtic chase a remarkable double in what has been a turbulent campaign.