Iheanacho makes top 100 young footballers in Europe

Kelechi Iheanacho

Nigerian footballer, Kelechi Iheanacho, has been named on a list of Europe’s top 100 prospects.

The 19-year-old attacker was selected amongst the cream of the crop in a survey conducted by Italian football website, Tutto Mercato Web.

Iheanacho made his senior debut for English club, Manchester City at the start of the 2015/16 season and has contributed immensely to Manuel Pellegrini’s side.

He continued to enhance his reputation with a goal at Norwich in the FA Cup on Saturday, taking his tally to five goals in three starts and 11 substitute appearances.

The youngster joined City last season from the Nigerian non-league side, Taye Academy, after being named player of the tournament at the FIFA U-17 World Cup three years ago.

He impressed City boss Pellegrini during their pre-season tour in 2014, but a protracted work permit process and an injury meant last season proved to be a washout for the teenager.

“It was very important for Kelechi to demonstrate once again that he’s a very good player,” the manager said after Iheanacho’s performance against Crystal Palace in the Capital One Cup.

“He’s not just a striker – he provided two assists – I’m very happy for him. He has things to improve but he’s working in the correct way.

“I had no doubt in him – I see how he works every day and his personality is important and it’s important for him to play with important players.”

Iheanacho’s Man City teammate, Manu Garcia, was one among 19 other youngsters selected from the Barclays Premier League.