Celtic's striker situation has become the most pressing issue for manager Martin O'Neill as the clock ticks down on a crucial decision regarding Kelechi Iheanacho. The Nigerian forward, who joined after the transfer window closed last summer, has shown quality but also significant fitness concerns.
Iheanacho's Impact and Injury Woes
Iheanacho scored nine goals in just eight starts last season, including six in the final nine games to help Celtic secure the Double. However, those statistics also highlight the problem: he missed large portions of the campaign due to injury. Even when fit, he was rarely able to start and finish matches. At Tannadice, he was blowing after 40 minutes, underscoring his lack of match fitness.
O'Neill initially joked about Iheanacho's limited playing time, saying he'd love a job where he gets paid to play 'about two games a season.' The manager was only half joking, as Iheanacho trained for two months before being deemed ready for action. It wasn't until Tomas Cvancara got injured that O'Neill turned to the Nigerian, and the gamble paid off.
The Cost of Keeping Iheanacho
Iheanacho is on high wages, and Celtic must weigh the option of triggering another 12 months. Dermot Desmond has long resisted breaking wage caps for individuals, fearing major pay gaps could disrupt the dressing room. However, if Iheanacho contributes to winning bonuses, lower earners might not object. Still, Desmond will require convincing.
In an ideal world, Celtic would keep Iheanacho and hope for full fitness. But having a top earner on the bench or in the treatment room would not sit well with the club's hierarchy.
Other Striker Options
Celtic have few internal alternatives. Daizen Maeda, who moved through the middle last season and rediscovered his scoring touch, is heading out the door. Youngster Callum Osmand showed promise with goals against Rangers in the League Cup semi-final and a last-kick winner against Hearts, but he is not ready to be the first-choice number nine. Johnny Kenny struggled at times before impressing on loan at Bolton, while Shin Yamada's loan in the German second division was low-key and he is unlikely to feature.
The club cannot afford a repeat of the panic loan recruits in January, with Tomas Cvancara and Junior Adamu failing to make an impact. A new striker is essential regardless of the Iheanacho decision.
The Clock Is Ticking
O'Neill has a full in-tray, but sorting the striker position is his top priority. The Iheanacho conundrum is the most pressing, as the club must decide soon whether to exercise the option. If Iheanacho can complete a full preseason and stay fit, he has the ability to be the main man. But it's a big if, and Celtic cannot afford to get it wrong.
