Celtic striker Iheanacho shows commitment with early return to training before Scottish Cup final

Kelechi Iheanacho has delivered a clear message to manager Martin O'Neill as Celtic prepare for Saturday’s Scottish Cup final against Dunfermline Athletic.

The Nigerian forward joined Celtic as a free agent and made an immediate impact with a dramatic stoppage-time winner on his debut against Kilmarnock.

However, recurring fitness setbacks have limited his consistency, even as he played a key role in Celtic’s Scottish Premiership title triumph, contributing decisive goals during the run-in.

Iheanacho delivered important goals against Dundee, Hibernian and Motherwell as Celtic went on to clinch the Scottish League title.

Despite his influence, Iheanacho has often found himself behind Japan international Daizen Maeda in the pecking order due to lack of fitness.

According to a video shared on social media by The Parkhead Faithful, Iheanacho returned to training on Monday ahead of schedule, despite the squad being given a rest day following their league title success.

The Super Eagles forward is keen to make a strong impression on the coaching staff regarding his fitness, with hopes of earning a starting place in Saturday’s Scottish Cup final.