Bursaspor head coach Mustafa Er has played down fears over Kelechi Iheanacho’s fitness after the Nigerian striker was forced off in Sunday’s 4-2 win over Keçiörengücü.
Iheanacho, who had scored his team’s third goal in the 50th minute to extend his scoring run to 12 consecutive league games, received treatment from the medical team before leaving the pitch in the 69th minute.
His departure sparked concern among fans of the Turkish 1. Lig leaders but Er said it was only a precaution.
“Kelechi has a little problem. We did not want to push too hard,” Er told Turkish outlet Bursahakimiyet. “He wanted to continue but we did not want to risk it. We were already ahead 4-2, and we had the score.”
The 30-year-old picked up the ball on the edge of the box, dribbled into space and fired home to make it 3-2, taking his tally to 16 goals and 3 assists in 12 appearances this season.
Bursaspor went on to win 4-2 thanks to goals from Lewis Baker and Brazilian midfielder Lincoln, who also provided assists before being sent off in the 84th minute for two quick yellow cards.
The win is Bursaspor’s third in a row and fourth in five, lifting them to the top of the 1. Lig table on 28 points from 12 matches, above Kayserispor.
Also Read: Iheanacho Vows To Score More Goals For Bursaspor
The Green Crocodiles host Bandirmaspor on Saturday and Er is confident Iheanacho will be available.
Super Eagles coaching crew would hope Iheanacho’s knock is not serious as he is expected to make the squad for next month’s double header with Tanzania for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The former Manchester City and Leicester forward made a return to the Super Eagles in the friendly match against Russia which ended 3-3, putting Eric Chelle’s side 1-0 ahead.
