Nigeria Players Abroad
“He’s got quality and can bring goals” – Joe Hart backs Iheanacho’s move to Celtic
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart has thrown his weight behind Kelechi Iheanacho, expressing confidence that the Nigerian striker will rediscover his best form at Celtic following his deadline-day switch.
Iheanacho’s move to Scotland comes after a frustrating spell at Sevilla, whom he joined on a free transfer from Leicester City.
Now reunited with former manager Brendan Rodgers, the 28-year-old is being tipped to make a big impact in the Scottish Premiership.
Hart, who shared a dressing room with Iheanacho during their time at Manchester City, believes the striker has all the tools to thrive at Parkhead.
“He’s coming into a winning dressing room, with a winning mentality. A club can’t really prepare anyone for that. I’m not saying it will shock him,” Hart explained.
“But there’s no point in any words from me. He needs to feel it to understand it. He’ll have a great leader in the dressing room in terms of Callum McGregor. He’s obviously got Brendan, John Kennedy and the coaching staff.
“You can be welcomed when you go through the dressing room door, but it’s about, how much do you want it? How much do you want to make this place your home? Because if he really wants it, he’s got the quality and can bring goals to this club.”
The veteran shot-stopper went further to highlight Iheanacho’s clinical finishing ability.
“He’s so calm when finishing. His left foot is very hard to read, he plants his right foot, he can open up or reverse. Brendan knows how to get the best out of him. If he can find his rhythm and fitness Celtic could have a really top striker.
“He’s a natural finisher when his eye is in. Like any striker, it can look quite difficult when they are not in a rhythm, but Kelechi will be given the support,” Hart reiterated.
Iheanacho, who missed out on the Super Eagles squad for the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, is currently training to regain full fitness. His Celtic debut is expected after the international break, as he looks to kick-start a new chapter in his career with the Scottish champions.