'He wouldn't be at Celtic’ – Rodgers admits as Iheanacho registers assist on full debut

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers hailed new signing Kelechi Iheanacho ahead of the kickoff of Sunday’s League Cup clash with Partick Thistle.

The Nigeria international marked his full debut with his first ever assist in Scottish football. 

Iheanacho, who joined the Hoops as a free agent, provided the assist for the third goal in Celtic's 4-0 victory over 

The Nigerian international combined superbly with Sebastian Tounekti to set up the Tunisian forward's first goal for the club.

Speaking about the striker, the former Leicester City boss lauded his physical power but admitted he needs more game time to fully regain his match sharpness.

"His fitness is really good, one of the leanest players in our squad, but maybe the football fitness - he hasn't played as much, Rodgers told reporters as reported by BBC.

The Irish coach expressed confidence in unlocking the Super Eagles striker's full potential, stressing that he still possesses the quality to compete at the highest level.

"We're hoping by coming to a special club like Celtic, we can get him firing again. I know what he needs. If he was still at the level he can play at, he wouldn't be at Celtic."

The 28-year-old Iheanacho made way in the 59th minute, with Japan international Daizen Maeda coming on in his place.

After an encouraging full debut, Iheanacho will now look to build on the momentum and repay his coach's faith as he aims for a successful spell at Celtic.

Adeyemi Adewale

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