Kelechi Iheanacho’s injury-plagued season at Celtic took another difficult turn on Sunday. The Nigerian forward sustained a fresh hamstring injury during Celtic’s Premier Sports Cup final defeat against St Mirren.

The 29-year-old received his first start since recovering from a previous muscle issue. However, his comeback ended abruptly after just 35 minutes at Hampden Park. While pursuing a forward pass near the touchline, Iheanacho suddenly pulled up clutching his leg, immediately alerting Celtic’s medical staff.

Though he briefly tried to continue, the striker was substituted as a precaution. Johnny Kenny replaced him amid growing concerns about another extended absence.

This setback delivers a significant blow to manager Wilfried Nancy. He had only recently reintegrated Iheanacho into the squad. The Nigerian had returned as a substitute during Celtic’s Europa League loss to Roma earlier in the week. That appearance marked his first in nearly two months following an October hamstring injury against Sturm Graz.

Sunday’s incident sparks fears of another lengthy absence. Iheanacho has already missed six league matches this season. He also sat out the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers and a Europa League clash with Midtjylland.

Before his injury exit, Iheanacho showed promising form. He nearly opened the scoring with a powerful header. St Mirren goalkeeper Shamal George produced an excellent save to deny him. This glimpse of quality demonstrated why Celtic signed him as a free agent after his Sevilla departure.

Injuries have overshadowed Iheanacho’s Glasgow stint. Since arriving after the summer transfer window closed, he has made just nine appearances. Though he scored three goals, consistent fitness has remained elusive.

Celtic’s injury concerns continue mounting. Cameron Carter-Vickers and Alistair Johnston are currently sidelined. Daizen Maeda and Auston Trusty have also faced recent absences. Iheanacho’s latest setback further strains Celtic’s squad during a demanding fixture schedule.

The final compounded a difficult week for Celtic. They conceded within two minutes to Marcus Fraser’s header. Reo Hatate equalized before St Mirren dominated the second half. John Ayunga’s brace secured a memorable cup triumph for St Mirren.