Celtic get massive Europa League boost following Iheanacho update

Jan 29, 2026 - 14:30
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Celtic get massive Europa League boost following Iheanacho update

Record SPFL Champions Celtic have gotten a massive boost ahead of their must-win UEFA Europa League clash against FC Utrecht this evening, Soccernet.ng reports.

Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho is set for his first game in six weeks after suffering recurring hamstring problems.

The 29-year-old's first spell on the sidelines came after an abrupt hamstring injury against Sturm Graz, and while he returned to action three weeks later, it was too soon as his thigh snapped in the League Cup final against St. Mirren.

The former Sevilla striker returned to training last week, with the caretaker manager, Martin O'Neill, looking to ease Iheanacho slowly into action.

Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic feels his hamstring as the medical team check him over
Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic feels his hamstring as the medical team checks him over. Copyright: ImagoxVagelisxGeorgariou

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Iheanacho to feature in Celtic's game against Utrecht

Celtic currently sit 24th in the Europa League table, while Utrecht are in a much worse position in 34th with just one point from seven games.

This means that if the Hoops win their last group-stage game, they are guaranteed to advance to the knockout phase of the competition.

The Eredivisie side currently sits at 11th in their domestic league and have lost five straight games heading into the clash against Celtic.

Kelechi Iheanacho holds his ankle during the William Hill Premiership match at Dens Park, Dundee
Kelechi Iheanacho holds his ankle during the William Hill Premiership match at Dens Park, Dundee. Copyright: ImagoxFredxPalmerx

Martin O'Neill confirmed that Iheanacho returned to training on Wednesday, as per the BBC. The former Manchester City striker is available for selection and will feature as the Hoops look for three points after a draw in their last two games.

Away from Iheanacho, left-back Marcelo Saracchi, who has been out injured since early December, is also back in training.

Kelechi Iheanacho celebrate goal with team mates during the 2021 Africa Cup Of Nations match between Nigeria and Egypt
Kelechi Iheanacho celebrate goal with teammates during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations match between Nigeria and Egypt at Stade Roumde Adjia on January 11, 2022,in Garoua, Cameroon. Photo by ImagoxTobi Adepoju

Across all competitions, Iheanacho has scored three goals and provided one assist for Celtic this season.

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