Iheanacho’s EPL Goal Drought Continues into 2018; Aluko Struggles, Obi Steady in European Leagues

Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho concluded the year 2017 without finding the back of the net in the English Premier League (EPL), a continuation of his goal drought that spanned the entire calendar year. The 21-year-old forward was notably absent from Leicester City’s match day squad, as they suffered a 2-1 defeat against Liverpool. Mohamed Salah’s second-half brace overcame Jamie Vardy’s early opener.

Iheanacho participated in 16 EPL games in 2017, seven with Manchester City and nine with Leicester City, failing to score in any. His last league goal in the EPL dates back to December 26, 2016, against Hull City. Despite this, Iheanacho showcased his goal-scoring prowess for the Super Eagles, tallying four goals in seven appearances for the national team during 2017.

Wilfred Ndidi marked his 21st start of the EPL season for Leicester City on Saturday, accumulating a total of 38 appearances in 2017. Ahmed Musa, however, was named on the substitutes bench for the first time this season without featuring in the game.

In other EPL action, Victor Moses contributed 57 minutes to Chelsea’s convincing 5-0 victory over Stoke City, securing his 14th start of the league campaign for the reigning champions.

Meanwhile, Sone Aluko faced a challenging 1-1 draw with Barnsley, extending his goal drought to 10 games for Reading this season. Aluko, who last scored on November 4, 2017, against Derby County, has netted twice in 20 English Championship appearances.

Turning our attention to European leagues, Nigerian midfielder Joel Obi made his 11th Serie A start for Torino in a goalless draw with Genoa, while Ola Aina completed the full match for Hull City in their 2-2 home draw with Fulham in the English Championship.

Efe Ambrose featured in Hibernian’s 1-1 draw at home to Kilmarnock, marking his 23rd appearance in the Scottish Premiership this season, with one goal to his credit.