Kelechi Iheanacho returned to action for Celtic on Thursday as the Scottish side suffered a 3-0 defeat to AS Roma in their Europa League clash.

The former Leicester City forward was introduced at the start of the second half, replacing Daizen Maeda. Iheanacho quickly became involved in Celtic’s attacking moves, but a goal he scored in the 63rd minute was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.

Iheanacho returned after spending seven weeks on the sidelines due to a hamstring injury.

The Nigerian striker had not featured for Celtic since the Europa League matchday three clash with Sturm Graz in October.

Despite his return to action, the former Manchester City forward misses out on Eric Chelle’s final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco later this month.

Iheanacho was, however, initially named in Chelle’s 54-man provisional list.

His return provides the Scottish club with an additional option in attack following his recovery from injury.

Since joining Celtic in September, Iheanacho has scored three goals and provided one assist.

Wale Adejumo