Kelechi Iheanacho: the eyes of East Midlands are upon you

A Case of the “Yips”

As mentioned before, in low pressure situations the Nigerian is a superb striker. In five appearances in the FA Cup last season and scored four goals; while in two appearances in the League Cup the 21-year-old earned one goal.

Now, early stage cup matches are not high-stakes matches one would see like in the Premier League. Consequently, the Cup matches Iheanacho played in were earlier rounds. With these performances combined with an excellent preseason, it proves that Iheanacho is at his best when the stakes are low.

When the 21-year-old is depended on as the primary goal scorer in an important match, the striker has a history of having a case nerves. The pressure seemingly gets to the young player and his performance on the pitch is a disappointment.

In Russia for the 2018 World Cup, Iheanacho performed poorly. According to French newspaper L’Equipe rated him as one of the worst players in the World Cup. The young striker had an average player rating of 3.5 – as claimed by the French publication. This criticism is not undeserved. Iheanacho had a weak World Cup. In three matches Iheanacho was only able to produce three shots, with none of them being on target.

In a Foxes uniform, when Vardy was on the bench against United, Iheanacho failed to convert two strong scoring opportunities. The frustration was visible, as at one point – while missing a scoring opportunity – Iheanacho put his hands on his head and screamed in the air.

After a disappointing display by Iheanacho, the Foxes were only able to score a last gasp goal from Jamie Vardy; as he took over the main striker role from Iheanacho. However, for the next three games the Foxes will not have the luxury to rely on Vardy to score a gritty goal like he did against United. It is up to the Nigeria player to do that now.

The eyes of Leicester City are upon you

The Foxes have multiple matches without Jamie Vardy. Unless manager Claude Puel makes a surprise decision, Iheanacho will take over Vardy’s role as main striker. The Nigerian is a talented player, with an incredible amount of potential. He has proven that he is an effective and powerful striker. However, when the pressure is on Iheanacho has a history of folding under pressure.

Ideally, the Foxes are able to earn four points over the next two league games; with a win against Southampton. Liverpool will be extremely tough – either way – so a draw is a bonus. Vardy also misses the Carabao Cup clash with former side Fleetwood Town. For the Foxes to beat Bournemouth, Iheanacho needs to play to his potential – along with new stars like Ricardo Pereira and James Maddison. The Nigerian has proved that he is a top talent. Now it is time for him to implement his talent – when Leicester need him the most.