Iheanacho set to start for City against Norwich

The Manchester City manager, Manuel Pellegrini, says his Nigerian starlet, Kelechi Iheanacho, is in line to make his first start in the Barclays English Premier League against Norwich City on Saturday.

Iheanacho was impressive, netting once and providing two assists as City defeated Crystal Palace 5-1 in the Capital One Cup on Wednesday.

Pellegrini, usually coy about his team selections, says the 19-year-old “demonstrated what he can do” and could earn a start against Norwich at the Etihad.

“Well, in the way he demonstrated what he can do of course he will also be an option to start (against Norwich City).

“It is not an easy position to start in this team because we have a lot of good players.

“For me, it depends on the position of the player who starts,” Pellegrini said during his press conference on Friday.

The Chilean gaffer also added that he was not impressed by the Nigerian’s showing on Wednesday as he was well aware of his extravagant talents.

“No he didn’t impress me (on Wednesday) because I work with him everyday so I know what he can give to our team.

“Last season, I did not think that he was ready.

“We talked about his work permit but unfortunately for him, he had a very serious injury on his ankle. That is why he could not play last season but now he’s ready and I am very happy for him to demonstrate what he can do.

“But it is just one game and he must repeat and he must continue trying to improve in every game that he plays.

“(Wilfred) Bony is important not just for Kelechi but also for the team because he’s a striker that prepares very well.

“He makes good runs for Kelechi and Kun (Sergio Aguero) which is important for them to score,” he said.

Iheanacho has six Premier League appearances this season – all as a substitute.

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