Kelechi Iheanacho: Wilfred Ndidi backs Nigeria team-mate to be even better after

On Saturday Iheanacho was in Leicester’s starting line-up against his former club Manchester City to make it six consecutive starts for the first time in his club career.

Ndidi now hopes to see the 2013 Under-17 World Cup winner and two-time Caf’s Most Promising Talent of the Year winner kick on.

“He’s a happy guy and Kelechi is only now enjoying a deserving reward for his tireless hard work,” Ndidi added.

“When you get a rhythm of games and the support of your coach, teammates and fans it can only get better.

“This latest chapter is going to give him the belief and confidence that he is a really important player for his club and country.

“I know and hope that he will continue to deliver for us. I never doubted him and I know he will bring more goals and performance that will continue to elevate him.”

Iheanacho has made 118 appearances, scoring 32 goals and providing 17 assists, since moving to Leicester from Manchester City on a five-year contract in 2017.

At international level, he has scored nine goals in 30 appearances for Nigeria since making his senior debut against Swaziland in November 2015.

He starred as Nigeria won the 2013 Under-17 World Cup for a record fourth-time and emerged as the tournament’s outstanding player, being voted the Most Valuable Player.

He also scored six goals to secure the Silver Boot as the competition’s second-highest goal-scorer.