Kelechi Iheanacho had a simple choice after Celtic completed another successful league campaign. He could stay in celebration mode, or he could make sure nobody at the club forgot he still wants a bigger role in the Scottish Cup final.
Celtic’s 3-1 win over Hearts gave the squad another major moment to enjoy. The result secured a fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title and allowed Martin O’Neill’s side to move into Scottish Cup final week with the league already settled.
After the drama of last weekend, it would have been understandable had some players spent a couple of days celebrating before turning their attention to the game against Dunfermline, but Iheanacho had other ideas.
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Iheanacho seems desperate to prove himself. After featuring from the bench against Hearts, the Nigeria international was back working individually on Monday with performance coach Kwaku Mhemeng, who posted footage with the caption: “Champions on Saturday, back in work Monday. Elite mentality.”
The forward has faced criticism over his fitness, especially as he only seems to manage no more than a half of football.
However, one thing that cannot be understated is his desire to work harder and improve constantly.
Kelechi Iheanacho must be involved in the Scottish Cup final
Daizen Maeda’s success down the middle makes it hard to justify starting Iheanacho, but he also deserves to be given a chance to lead the line.
Maeda can move out to the left wing, and Iheanacho can provide a real focal point for the rest of the side to play off.
If O’Neill decides that starting him isn’t the right call, he has to come off the bench at the very least.
From where he was when he first joined to where he is now, it would be the perfect way to cap off his time.
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