Celtic striker Iheanacho discusses racism, social media abuse, 150 games under Brendan Rodgers

Celtic striker Kelechi Iheanacho has spoken candidly about racism, social media abuse, and his recent career milestone of featuring in 150 games under manager Brendan Rodgers.

The Nigerian international reached the landmark appearance during Celtic’s 2-0 defeat to Dundee FC on Sunday afternoon.

Speaking before the game, Iheanacho reflected on the need for stronger action against racism and online hate.

"I understand in this world now, there are different cultures, different types of people, we all have one colour of blood, that makes all of us the same," Iheanacho said to Sky Sports Scotland.

"People have different language and how they think and all that. Maybe something happen and people started racial abuse some people."

He expressed concern over the rise of online hate speech, emphasizing the challenge of accountability on social media platforms.

"Some of us footballers can handle it and some cannot handle it. The government body should try and do something about it," he noted.

"I don't know the owners of the social media and what they are doing and how they are handling it.

"People can put messages on whatever social media and abusing people and all that. If someone abuse somebody in the stadium, they can take him or something but on social media you cannot get hold of the person."

Despite the negativity, Iheanacho revealed that he has learned to focus on his performance rather than online criticism.

"As a football player in terms of you playing in a team and all that you might get your stick when it is not going really well," he noted.

"I don't really look too much into social media. But not that you cannot something that people put on social media about you.

"It doesn't affect me in anyway because I choose to concentrate on my football and what I am doing because it is the most important thing. But don't get me wrong, we are human beings so everyone gets feelings."

The 29-year-old marked his 150th appearance under manager Brendan Rodgers in the match against Dundee, comprising 143 outings for Leicester City and seven for Celtic, during which he amassed an impressive 72 goal involvements (46 goals and 26 assists).

On reaching the milestone, Iheanacho said: "The gaffer is someone that knows how to manage his players. He is a big support. Maybe it might not be racism but a different thing in life. He is very good at that. 

"I will struggle to remember to be fair. I didn't know that. It will be a honour to have my 150 games under him. I will be happy."

Iheanacho has enjoyed a brilliant start to life in Scotland since joining Celtic as a free agent in the summer.

The Nigerian forward has already netted three goals and registered one assist in seven appearances across all competitions.

Adeyemi Adewale

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