Iheanacho says England feels like home, excited to begin
Nigeria international, Kelechi Iheanacho, says he is excited to return to a familiar ground where he feels very much at home following his move to Middlesbrough in the January transfer window after a short spell in Spain with Sevilla, adding that he can’t wait to get started, NewsNGR Sports Extra reports.
The 28-year-old striker joined Middlesbrough on transfer deadline day after spending just six months with the La Liga outfit following his free transfer from Leicester City.
Iheanacho endured a difficult spell in Spain since joining Sevilla, failing to score in nine La Liga appearances. His only goals for the club came in the Copa del Rey, where he netted three times.
The former Manchester City forward, who helped Leicester win the Championship last season, expressed excitement about his return to England and the opportunity to work with Boro manager Michael Carrick.
“Obviously, there are good coaches here and a good team. I’ve played against the club a few times so I know it’s a really good club. I spoke to the manager and he was a really nice guy. We discussed everything from training to games and how he wants the club to move forward. It was clear that the goal was to get to the Premier League, which was good. I can’t wait to get started,” Iheanacho was quoted by Teesside Live.
“It was good to move away and experience a different environment. They produce a great atmosphere there and it’s another great club. I loved my experience there, it’s a great team. I’m here now though, and focused on what I can achieve here.”
After a difficult six-month spell in Spain, Iheanacho was relieved to return to England, where he made a name for himself, winning the English Community Shield, FA Cup, and the EFL Championship.
“It was good to move away and experience a different environment. They produce a great atmosphere there and it’s another great club. I loved my experience there, it’s a great team. I’m here now though, and focused on what I can achieve here,” he added.
“England feels like home now and I’m buzzing to get started. I had the experience of the Championship with Leicester last season and it was obviously a good one. I played against Middlesbrough as well, but didn’t manage to score! But I’ve played in the league and know how it is.”
“I think that will help me get started right away. I’m feeling ready to go. I’m not big on setting targets, but collectively, as a team, it is to get back to the Premier League. It’s one step at a time, but hopefully we get there. We’ve got a good group of lads here, a good team, and hopefully, we can work together to achieve that goal.”
