Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy has provided an encouraging update on striker Kelechi Iheanacho’s recovery, indicating that the player is making significant strides in his rehabilitation. Iheanacho, who has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained during an October Europa League match against Sturm Graz, has returned to full training. He was recently named as an unused substitute in a challenging 2-1 defeat against Hearts, leading Nancy to contemplate his potential involvement in the upcoming Europa League clash against AS Roma.
“His training has been promising. However, he needs to regain match fitness after being out for two months,” Nancy explained. He emphasized a cautious approach to Iheanacho’s reintegration into competitive play, noting that while the player might not be ready for an extended period on the pitch, he could step in for short bursts. Nancy is aware of the need to manage the squad’s fitness carefully, particularly given a lack of rotation in previous matches.
As the team prepares for the critical match against Roma, Nancy faces scrutiny over his tactical choices and training methods following the loss to Hearts. Criticism has surfaced, including comments regarding his style and the tools he utilizes on the touchline. However, Nancy remains unfazed by the disapproval, asserting that he will not let external opinions influence his focus or approach to the game.
“It’s part of the job to face criticism. I understand that not everyone will agree with my methods or decisions,” Nancy stated. He acknowledged personal feelings might be affected by negative comments but emphasized the importance of concentrating on what he can control, particularly in on-field performance and training strategies.
The Celtic boss clarified that while criticism can be tough to endure, he has chosen not to engage with it obsessively. He stated, “What I prioritize is maximizing our team’s potential and securing victories. I have learned to filter out distractions to focus on the club’s legacy and the passionate support from our fans.”
Amidst a social media frenzy regarding his tactics and coaching style, Nancy is committed to remaining focused on his responsibilities. He concluded by reiterating his dedication to the team’s success while being mindful of varied opinions surrounding his coaching methods. As Celtic looks forward to facing Roma, the manager’s emphasis remains on preparation, performance, and the collective goal of winning.
