Celtic Boss uncertain over Kelechi Iheanacho’s future after cup double triumph

Celtic interim head coach, Martin O’Neill has cast doubt over Kelechi Iheanacho’s future at the club, offering little clarity on whether the Super Eagles striker will remain in Glasgow beyond the current campaign.  

.....

O’Neill admitted he is in no position to make guarantees about player contracts due to the uncertainty surrounding his own management role.  

The 29-year-old Nigeria international signed a one-year deal with the Hoops last summer as a free agent, with the club holding an option to extend the agreement by another 12 months.  

Speaking after the Scottish Cup final, O’Neill revealed that the forward has been eagerly pressing him for answers regarding what happens next.

“Iheanacho keeps asking me! ‘What do you think, are they going to keep me on?’” O’Neill told reporters. “I have no idea, mate. Don’t ask me, I am not the manager anymore. This morning again, he stopped me in the lift. ‘Are you staying on?’ I have no idea, can you just concentrate on the game this afternoon.”

Despite struggling with injuries earlier in the year and largely operating as an impact weapon off the bench, the forward has become a massive fan favorite at Parkhead. He played a key role down the final stretch of the season, helping secure a historic domestic double.  

The striker capped off his debut campaign by scoring Celtic’s third goal in their -1 victory over Dunfermline at Hampden Park, bringing his season tally to nine goals in 24 appearances across all competitions.  

Following the trophy celebrations, the forward made it clear that he wants the club to trigger his contract extension so he can remain in Glasgow.

“I love the supporters, I love them all,” he said. “Everyone in the streets of Glasgow, people recognise me. I am happy. The whole of Glasgow is a great city. Hopefully, I will be here next season. I am really happy to wear a Celtic shirt and to play for them with all my heart.”