Joe Hart believes Kelechi Iheanacho has the chance to make Celtic his “special” home if he can show the quality that once made him one of the Premier League’s most exciting young strikers.
The Nigerian forward arrived at Parkhead after his release from Sevilla, reuniting with Brendan Rodgers who coached him during their time together at Leicester City.
His signing has sparked debate after a difficult spell in Spain, but Hart insists a poor run of form should not define the forward’s career.
The former England goalkeeper drew on his own experience of bouncing back from tough spells and believes Iheanacho has the pedigree and determination to succeed in Glasgow.
Hart also pointed to Rodgers’ close relationship with the striker as a key factor that could help him rediscover his best form.
He said: (RecordSport), “We’ve all had disappointing 12 months in our careers. Very few haven’t, and certainly striker-wise.
“But those 12 months don’t define you, it’s the previous work he’s put in.
“Coming over, getting that contract and a chance at Manchester City, gets a great move to Leicester City.
“There’s a player in him, and as much as Celtic want to bring in young talent from around the world and nurse them, develop them and then sell them for great profit, there’s also room for people like Kelechi.
“He’s a little bit younger than I was, but didn’t have a good 12 months previous to coming here.
“But my quality was there and I know the quality’s there with Kelechi.
“It’s just if he wants to be in the room, whether he wants to put it in.
“But Brendan knows him, and it’s such a nice feeling to walk in when you know the coach and you know what he expects of you. You can have some real truthful conversations.
“So if he can bring that to the table then he can find himself a special home when he’s been a bit lost for a couple of months.”
Hart’s comments will reassure supporters who have questioned whether Iheanacho can recapture the form that once saw him shine in England’s top flight. The goalkeeper believes his former teammate has the mentality and skill to thrive in Glasgow’s demanding environment.
With Rodgers already familiar with his strengths, Iheanacho has the backing of the manager as well as senior figures in the dressing room like Kasper Schmeichel. That level of trust could help him settle more quickly and focus on producing performances.
Soccer Football – Premier League – Leicester City v Manchester United – King Power Stadium, Leicester, Britain – October 16, 2021 Leicester City’s Kasper Schmeichel celebrates after the match with Kelechi Iheanacho and teammates REUTERS/Rebecca Naden
For Celtic, Iheanacho represents a different kind of signing, one with proven experience rather than untapped potential. If he adapts, Hart believes he can be the striker who makes a decisive difference in both domestic and European competition.
The challenge is now in Iheanacho’s hands, and Hart is convinced he has the ability to turn a fresh start into something memorable at Parkhead.
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