'A few weeks' - Celtic coach confirms Iheanacho's injury not as serious as first feared

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has offered a positive update on Kelechi Iheanacho's condition following fears that the striker had suffered a serious injury.

The Nigerian international picked up a hamstring problem during the first half of Celtic's 2-1 victory over Sturm Graz in the UEFA Europa League last Thursday. 

Iheanacho was forced off in the fourth minute and replaced by youngster Johnny Kenny, to the disappointment of fans at Celtic Park.

Initial concerns suggested the injury could sideline the forward for several weeks, but Rodgers has eased those fears, confirming that Iheanacho's condition is not as severe as first thought.

The former Leicester City boss, however, revealed that the striker will miss Wednesday's clash against Falkirk as he continues his recovery.

"Alistair and Kelechi are probably not as serious as we first thought, but I'm not sure they'll make Wednesday," Rodgers was quoted as saying by The Celtic Way after the 3-1 loss to Hearts on Sunday.

The Irish coach further revealed that Iheanacho would be out for only a few weeks.

"So they'll definitely be a few weeks," he added.

Iheanacho, who joined Celtic in the summer, has been one of the club's standout performers this season, contributing key goals and assists across competitions.

His short-term absence, however, could impact both club and country. 

The forward is now a doubt for Nigeria's 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier playoffs in November, where the Super Eagles are set to face Gabon.

The winner of that tie will go on to meet either DR Congo or Cameroon, with the eventual victor representing Africa in the intercontinental playoffs for a spot at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale

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