Leicester City’s hattrick hero Kelechi Iheanacho says he has been eagerly waiting to score his first hat-trick in the Premier League.
Speaking after netting a personal milestone in the 5-0 defeat of Sheffield United on Sunday evening, the Nigerian told Sky Sports he is overwhelmed by his feat.
“I don’t know how to express this, I’ve been waiting for this day to come. I’m grateful to God, my teammates and my manager for for helping me grow.
“I wish everyone a happy Mother’s Day. I dedicate this match ball to all the mothers in the world.
[On playing with teammate Jamie Vardy] “Playing with him is a joy, he makes so much space for me. I’m really happy, I’m delighted. Even when he’s not scoring he’s helping the team to win.
“It was the first win at home for a while and it’s a clean sheet as well so we’re all really happy.
“The gaffer made it clear when he came in that we need to keep going. We’re getting very near to the top, hopefully we [can] finish near there.”
Foxes manager, Brendan Rodgers hailed the Nigerian for his exceptional performance and the partnership between Iheanacho and jamie Vardy.
“[Kelechi Iheanacho has] been in great form. He’s playing at a really high level. Not just his goals but dropping in short into the right spaces. I thought he and Jamie Vardy up front – the combination was very good.
“[Vardy] allows the players to get up with him. He got in the right positions. He had some chances and the keeper makes saves. He keeps going for the team. He maybe could have scored. We always appreciate everything he brings for the team.