Celtic v Rangers – Kelechi Iheanacho should start in Glasgow Derby

With just a few days to go until the final Glasgow Derby of the season, all thoughts are now on Sundays showdown, with supporters already speculating on who will or who won’t be selected in Martin O’Neill’s starting XI…

One such player who is the centre of the speculation is Kelechi Iheanacho, who has contributed in a huge way these past few weeks with goals that have proved highly critical in Celtic’s pursuit of both the Scottish Premiership and the Scottish Cup.

Kelechi seems to be seen as more of an ‘impact’ player in the eyes of Martin O’Neill, and the overwhelming majority of the supporters would seem to agree, but due to his undeniable ability and influence, surely he’s due a starting slot?

He’s been asking the manager for a start and we could get clearly an hour out of him starting in Sunday’s  vital showdown with the latest Ibrox club.

Daizen Maeda’s purple patch 

Daizen Maeda seems to be Martin’s choice as a central striker, and the Japanese International has hit something of a purple patch in the last few weeks, but surely there’s room for both himself and Kelechi Iheanacho in the side?

Daizen’s terrific work ethic, and danger going forward will be invaluable on the left hand side of the attack, especially if James Tavernier is playing for the visitors! Daizen would certainly enjoy that and as we’ve reported on Celtic Shorts this morning, the Japanese talisman appears to be recovering well from his ankle knock picked up at Easter Road last Sunday and is set to start in the Glasgow Derby.

That would give Kelechi the opportunity to play as the central striker, and not only would he provide us with a bigger goal threat, his overall strength and ability will prove invaluable against a side who operate with big physical centre backs.

Kelechi Iheanacho is Celtic’s best finisher 

Some say that he can only play fleetingly, hence his thirty minute cameos, but he’s done well, so wouldn’t it be better to utilise his talents from the start, which could give us an early boost, and put us on the front foot from the first whistle?

Kelechi for me is the best striker we currently have in our squad, and deserves to start. But will Martin O’Neill feel the same way? We’ll find out on Sunday morning.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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