Leicester City manager has provided an explanation on why Nigeria international Kelechi Iheanacho missed from the spot in their 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace.
Brendan Rodgers was filled with sympathy for the ex Manchester City forward who wasted the chance to put his team ahead before Crystal Palace scored at the other end in what was a rare start for him.
Iheanacho stepped up from 12 yards after Luke Thomas was tripped by James Tomkins, only for the Nigerian to see his effort saved by Vicente Guaita.
Ayoze Perez had taken, and scored, a penalty for City in January, but Iheanacho got the nod over the Spaniard after winning a practice shoot-out at the new training ground the day before.
While Iheanacho finished five from five, Perez scored just four. Still, Brendan Rodgers said the spot-kick that mattered was “hesitant” on the part of the forward who is feeling the effect of playing second fiddle to a red hot Jamie Vardy.
“He’s a boy who doesn’t get too many chances,” said Rodgers on Iheanacho. “Him and Ayo were the two designated penalty takers, and they had a shoot-out at training. Kel’s were great penalties, five out of five. Ayo had four. But he (Iheanacho) seemed a bit hesitant today.
“He had another good chance at the near post. It just didn’t quite fall for him today. He’s a young player but even if you’re a senior player it’s always difficult when you’re behind one of the world’s best strikers.
“He’s come in and made an impact in games for us. When he’s started in the Europa League for us, he’s done that. The goal didn’t come and that’s something he will have to deal with. I feel for him today, but other opportunities will come and I’m sure he will take them.”
