In Nigeria, I Played Football With Stones – Iheanacho
Manchester City’s wonder kid, kelechi Iheanacho has revealed that the reason behind his current upsurge in football over the years, has been due to his unending love and passion for the game.
The young star, has been on superb form for his club this season, grabbing the match winner in one of his English Premier League appearances, which is why he is considered as one of the finest young talents present in the current Manchester City squad.
In a recent interview with Manchester Evening News, the 19-year old striker revealed that despite his rough environment in his home country Nigeria, his determination to play football against his parents’ wish got him to where he is today.
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He said: “It’s really hard over there in my country, it’s really hard in Africa. I started playing football when I was a kid. I love football but things that aren’t footballs, I played with as well. Even if I was walking in the road, I’d play with stones because I love football.
“My parents didn’t want me to play football, they wanted me to go to school and study my books but I was so stubborn.
“I represented my state and then Nigeria Under-15 and under-18s, then we represented Nigeria at the Under-17 World Cup. I couldn’t believe that. The head coach gave me confidence to play so I started playing and playing well.
“That’s how I started and my father is proud of me now. Everywhere he goes they just point at him and say look at Kelechi’s father.”
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“The Nigerian international also commended the support he receives from his Manchester City team-mates, saying it motivates his game.
“They give me confidence, many of them – Yaya, Sergio, Silva, Samir, Gael Clichy as well – he encourages me every time to keep going, keep going, keep chasing the defenders.
“I really love them and I’m happy to work with them.”
Iheanacho has played four games for City this season, scoring one goal with two shots on target
