Kelechi Iheanacho’s match-winning goal for Celtic in their 2-1 victory over Hibernian on Sunday has sparked fresh debate over his role in the team, with former Fulham midfielder John Collins praising his impact while questioning his suitability as a regular starter. The Nigerian forward, brought on in the second half, scored in the 72nd minute with a well-taken finish inside the box, helping Celtic secure a crucial win in their title race. His performance has reignited discussions about whether he should be given a starting spot in the lineup or continue to be used as a substitute in the closing stages of games.
Collins, speaking on BBC Sportsound, acknowledged Iheanacho’s technical abilities and footballing intelligence. “Iheanacho has a good awareness of what’s round about him,” he said. “He can take it in and you can play one-twos off him.” However, the former midfielder highlighted a key limitation: the forward’s physical stamina. “What he doesn’t have is legs to start a game,” Collins noted, suggesting that Iheanacho’s energy levels may not sustain a full 90 minutes at the highest level.
Despite this, Collins believes Iheanacho’s value lies in his ability to change games late in the match. “So the manager has a decision to make. Do you have him on the bench when games are usually won in the last 20 minutes?” he asked. He went on to predict that Iheanacho will likely remain a bench player for the remainder of the season, but emphasized his potential to deliver in decisive moments. “I think he’ll be a bench player used for the last minutes until the end of the season. But there’s every chance he could be a hero at the end of the season,” Collins added.
Iheanacho’s latest goal marks his fourth in six appearances across all competitions since returning from injury. His form has been a significant boost for Celtic, who are pushing hard for the Scottish Premiership title. The 28-year-old’s ability to find the net off the bench has made him a valuable asset, even if his starting role remains uncertain. His contributions have not only helped Celtic maintain their position at the top of the table but also reinforced his reputation as a clutch performer.
As the season enters its final stretch, Celtic’s manager will need to carefully manage Iheanacho’s minutes, balancing his attacking threat with the physical demands of regular starts. For now, the Nigerian international continues to prove his worth as a game-changer, and his performances could play a pivotal role in determining Celtic’s title fate. The coming weeks will reveal whether Iheanacho’s impact from the bench is enough to lead the team to glory.
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