Kelechi Iheanacho has finally opened his goal account for Middlesbrough, breaking a lengthy dry spell that had plagued his season in their 2-1 victory over Oxford United at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday.
The former Leicester City forward has struggled to find his footing since leaving the King Power Stadium last summer.
His move to Sevilla didn’t go as planned, as he failed to make an impact before being loaned out to Middlesbrough in January.
After going seven league games without a goal, Iheanacho found the net in Middlesbrough’s clash against Oxford United in the EFL Championship.
Oxford United took the lead in the 38th minute through Michal Helik, putting Middlesbrough on the back foot heading into halftime.
But just three minutes after the restart, Iheanacho finally ended his goal drought, finding the back of the net with an assist from Samuel Iling-Junior.
The momentum shifted in Boro’s favor, and they completed the turnaround in the 80th minute when Neto Borges fired home the winning goal again assisted by Iling-Junior.
With the win, Boro moved to seventh place, keeping their playoff hopes alive.
His dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Carrick praising his commitment and work ethic.
“That’s what it takes now. Kel’s definitely a big part of the group and important because of his experience and his character.
“The way he trains and goes about his business, he’s a good example to the younger lads. It’s taken him a few games to get up to 100 per cent in terms of sharpness and fitness, but I’m sure he’ll have a big impact for us between now and the end of the season.”
If Iheanacho can build on this breakthrough, he could still play a key role in Middlesbrough’s push for promotion as the season nears its climax.
