Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho is set to make his Middlesbrough debut when they visit Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, with head coach Michael Carrick revealing that the Nigerian international is ‘desperate’ to get on the pitch.
Iheanacho joined the EFL Championship side on transfer deadline day from Spanish club Sevilla, where he spent just six months.
The former Manchester City and Leicester City forward struggled to find his footing in Spain, failing to meet the high expectations that came with his vast Premier League experience. He did not score in nine league appearances but managed three goals in two Copa del Rey games.
A move away from Villarreal became inevitable as he sought to revive his career and regain form. Several clubs from England, Spain, Turkey, and Greece showed interest in signing him, but he ultimately chose to return to England.
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Although Iheanacho missed Middlesbrough’s 3-2 home loss to Sunderland on February 3, he is now available for selection against Sheffield Wednesday. Carrick believes the striker’s experience will be valuable to the team, adding that his eagerness to play has been evident.
“Kels has experience and pedigree—he’s been well-known for a long time. He played against us last season at the Riverside, and while we managed to come out on top that day, he showed his quality,” Carrick said in their pre-match press conference.
“He’s desperate to play, and he has a fantastic personality. Since arriving, he’s been great in training and has settled in well with the squad. We have a strong attacking lineup, and while not everyone can play at the same time, we can use that depth to our advantage.”
However, Carrick hinted that Iheanacho might not start the match but could feature as a substitute.
“We’re at a stage where we need more players contributing, whether starting or coming off the bench at the right moments. It’s about finding the right balance, and I believe we have that,” the former Manchester United midfielder added.
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