Coach Michael Carrick has backed Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho play a key role in Middlesbrough’s push for promotion to the English Premier League.
Iheanacho joined Middlesbrough on loan from LaLiga outfit Sevilla on January transfer deadline day until the end of the season, replacing Emmanuel Latte Lath who moved to Atlanta United in the Major League Soccer (MLS).
However, since his move, the Nigeria international has so far struggled to impress on Teesside.
The 28-year-old former Manchester City and Leicester City player is yet to score in seven appearances and has been completely ineffective in a few of his appearances, including the 0-0 draw at Luton before the international break.
However, Carrick has repeatedly showered praise on Iheanacho for his approach and attitude behind the scenes.
“That’s what it takes now. Kel’s definitely a big part of the group, and important because of his experience and his character,” the 2008 UEFA Champions League winner with Manchester United told The Northern Echo.
“The way he trains and goes about his business, he’s a good example to the younger lads. It’s taken him a few games to get really up to 100 per cent in terms of sharpness and fitness, but he’ll have a big impact for us between now and the end of the season, I’m sure.
“In terms of the extra training and looking after himself, that shows the attitude and his mentality really. People don’t always see that side, particularly during an international break.
“I guess that’s the advantage of that these days where it gives people that window into seeing things like that you never used to see. It’s a big part of being a good professional, and credit to all the boys who all work so hard.”
Iheanacho was dropped from the Super Eagles’ 23-man squad that faced Rwanda and Zimbabwe in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.
He initially made Eric Chelle’s 39-man provisional squad for the two encounters before being dropped.
Meanwhile, Middlesbrough are in eighth place in the English second-tier, three points from a play-off spot.
