Kelechi Iheanacho captured the hearts of the nation when he dedicated his maiden Premier League hat-trick to mums around the world, but there is a poignant story to his message.
After Iheanacho’s treble helped Leicester City to their biggest win of the campaign against Sheffield United on Sunday, he told Sky Sports: “I’m going to use this opportunity to dedicate this hat-trick to all of the mothers in the world, the ones taking care of us. I wish them all a happy Mother’s Day.”
Iheanacho’s message is perhaps more emotional given his own mum died when he was just 16.
Mercy, a teacher, died aged 43 after a brief illness. Later that year, 2013, Iheanacho was named player of the tournament as Nigeria won the Under-17s World Cup, his performances catching the eye of Manchester City.
Read Also: Iheanacho: Togetherness Can Push Leicester City For The Remainder Of The Season
And since arriving in the Premier League, he has honoured his mum’s memory by pointing to the skies when he scores, the 24-year-old appearing close to tears when he scored the goal that sealed his first league hat-trick on Sunday.
“The reason I point to heaven is because I think there is a God in heaven and also it’s for my mum, I know she’s watching when I score,” he said. “So I want to show my appreciation for God and for my late mum.”
He added: “It’s a really great day for me, my family and my team-mates. I’m delighted. I’m thankful for my team-mates and the manager for helping me to get to this level, and for Jamie Vardy, he has helped me a lot.
”Imhave been waiting for this day to come, it’s my first hat-trick in the Premier League, and I’m delighted. Hopefully there are many more to come in the future.”
1 Comment
Absolutely Nacho,There are many more to come.
Firstly,my condolences I hope your mum is in a better place.She might not be watching you but we are and Rohr has his searchlight on you.We expect a repeat of that remarkable performances last weekend against the squirrels of Benin republic.
Hopefully,we are going into a new era,a super eagles flying so high higher than ever!
Apparently,the disappointing performances last year could be a blessing,as this could spur our boys to play unbelievable football.