Former Nigeria international Mutiu Adepoju has thrown his support behind Kelechi Iheanacho, backing the Celtic FC forward for a potential return to the Super Eagles following his recent resurgence in form, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Iheanacho has endured a difficult campaign plagued by injuries, particularly recurring hamstring issues that have limited his playing time since his summer move. Despite these setbacks, the 29-year-old has managed six goals and one assist in 18 appearances for the Hoops.
The striker recently reminded fans of his quality with a match-winning performance in the Scottish Cup semi-final against St Mirren FC, where he scored twice in extra time to send Celtic into the final.
Reacting to his upturn in form, Adepoju, a member of Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad, believes Iheanacho still has what it takes to contribute at the international level.
“Kelechi has always been a very good player and a good scorer who has done very well over the years. Unfortunately, these past few years he has not been finding it easy,” Adepoju said.
“I’m happy that he is coming back and doing very well at Celtic. I just believe he will be able to sustain that and continue.
“Experience matters, and if he is doing very well and the national team handlers find him worthy, then he can still come back. I believe he has that ability to return to the team.”
Adepoju’s comments add to growing calls for Iheanacho’s reintegration into the national setup as the Super Eagles continue to reshape the squad ahead of upcoming international competitions.