Celtic forward Kelechi Iheanacho revealed that he sought permission from team captain Callum McGregor before taking the decisive penalty in their 2-1 victory over Kilmarnock on Saturday.
The Nigerian international, who joined the Scottish champions as a free agent in September, calmly converted the stoppage-time spot-kick past goalkeeper Max Stryjek to secure all three points for Brendan Rodgers’ side. The goal marked a dream debut for Iheanacho, who faced questions about how quickly he could adapt to life at Celtic Park.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Iheanacho explained: “Three points, massive. I asked the skipper to let me take the penalty and he said it was fine.”
He also praised fellow summer signing Sebastian Tounekti for his influence throughout the match, stating: “Big drama, big drama. [Sebastian Tounekti] made the difference in first half and second half.”
The former Leicester City striker highlighted the importance of making an immediate impact and expressed hope that the goal would be the first of many for Celtic. “It’s very, very important to make my mark on my debut. Hopefully more to come,” he said.
The victory propelled Celtic back to the top of the Scottish Premiership table, narrowly edging Hearts on goal difference as the title race takes shape.
