Super Eagles forward, Kelechi Iheanacho, insists he’s ready for the responsibility of stepping into Sergio Aguero’s boots when the Manchester City striker begins his four-game ban in the Premier League.
The Nigerian made his first start in over a month for City on Tuesday, scoring an equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Celtic in the Champions League.
Iheanacho, 20, could now start in the Premier League clash with Leicester City at the weekend as Aguero begins a suspension for his horrific tackle on David Luiz in a 1-3 loss to Chelsea at the Etihad on Saturday.
The Argentina international will also miss the games against Watford, Arsenal and Hull City before returning for the trip to face Liverpool at Anfield on December 31.
“I have a responsibility to be the striker for the team, replacing Sergio when he is not around,” Iheanacho told reporters. “I have to prove myself, give my best and work hard for the team and make sure we get the wins we need.”
City was already assured a second place finish in Group C and manager Pep Guardiola took the opportunity to rest a number of his first-team players and gave starts to some younger members of his squad.
Iheanacho was delighted with his eighth-minute strike but said he was disappointed not to win despite their being nothing riding on the result.
“It was a great goal and a good response from our team collectively. I thank my teammates because they put the effort in to give me the ball to score.”
