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Leicester Manager Puel Urges Iheanacho to Elevate Performance for Starting Spot
Leicester City manager Claude Puel has conveyed a candid message to Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho, emphasizing the imperative need for improvement if he aspires to secure a coveted place in the starting line-up.
Despite his noteworthy reputation, Iheanacho has found himself in a peripheral role for the Foxes since his £25 million transfer from Manchester City last summer. With only six appearances in the English Premier League to his name, speculations have arisen regarding a potential loan move to Turkish champions Besiktas. Notably, in Saturday’s FA Cup clash against Fleetwood Town, where Jamie Vardy’s absence created an opening, Algeria’s Islam Slimani was chosen over Iheanacho.
In a statement to Leicestermercury.co.uk, Puel expressed, “I think Kelechi is a young player, and he needs to improve aspects of his play. Also, it is difficult because he is a player behind Jamie Vardy, and it means he doesn’t get many opportunities. Shinji Okazaki is also playing well, so it is difficult for him. He works hard on the pitch and in the training sessions, and he needs to continue. I hope he can have some game time in the future.”
Puel’s comments shed light on the competitive dynamics within the squad and the manager’s expectation of continual development from Iheanacho. As the Nigerian forward strives to enhance his performance, Leicester City fans eagerly await his potential breakthrough into the starting eleven.
