Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has explained his decision to hand Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho a rare start during the 2–0 defeat to Dundee United on Sunday.

Iheanacho, who has endured an injury-disrupted campaign, featured for 57 minutes before being replaced by Sebastian Tounekti in the second half.

The Super Eagles striker showed flashes of sharpness during his time on the pitch and came close to opening the scoring, only to be denied by Dundee goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer.

Speaking to the BBC, O'Neill hinted that the unavailability of Czech forward Tomáš Čvančara contributed to his decision to start Iheanacho. 

The former Aston Villa manager also praised Iheanacho’s determination to return to fitness after struggling with a hamstring problem.

"Tomas [Cvancara] has been ill all week," O'Neill said. "[Kelechi] Iheanacho had hamstring problems before but he's done very well in training. He may not last the game but let's see."

The appearance marked Iheanacho’s second league outing of the year, having previously made a brief cameo in Celtic’s 2–0 victory over Falkirk FC on February 2.

It was also the Nigerian international’s first league start since October 2025, when Celtic also suffered a 2–0 defeat to Dundee FC.

With the season entering its decisive phase, Iheanacho will be eager to build on the minutes gained and regain full match fitness as Celtic push to remain competitive in the Scottish Premiership title race.