Kelechi Iheanacho makes history, says I won’t give up

Nigeria international Kelechi Iheanacho made history when he became the fourth substitute to be used in the FA Cup after replacing Raheem Sterling in the 106th minute, while Arsenal’s Iwobi was an unused substitute.

Iheanacho has said he is not worried about concerns by Nigerian fans who wish to see him play regularly for Manchester City.

The 20-year old appears to have lost his place in the Manchester City team, as he is predominantly on the bench if he is not completely excluded from their match day squad and the Nigeria international says he is aware of what Nigerians have been saying about his lack of game time, but says he is not worried about the comments.

“I cannot pretend that I don’t hear what people back home [in Nigeria] say about my lack of regular football but I will continue to fight,” Iheanacho told BBC Sport.

“I don’t worry about those comments. All I need to do is to keep working, keep doing well and keep improving every day”. Iheanacho also added that he is happy to have both Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus – the two players who have kept him out of the team – around, as he learns from them.

“As a young player, I’m happy playing alongside these fantastic players because I learn and get better every day. “It’s a big thing for my career to compete with these players. I’m okay with the way things are going.”