Head coach of underperforming LaLiga side Sevilla Garcia Pimienta has once again leaped to the defence of Nigeria international striker Kelechi Iheanacho after another poor performance in their 1-2 loss to Alaves yesterday, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
Garcia defended the 27 year prior to the game saying he is still working his way to full fitness and the best shape physically after missing most of their preparation for the season, which happened due to his late move to the club from Leicester City.
Yesterday the summer signing was required to come on as a substitute for Isaac Romero after 14 minutes, and failed to provide the spark they need to follow up their win last weekend with another win. His performance drew further criticism his way forcing Pimienta into leaping to his defence again.
“Unfortunately, Isaac’s injury affected things. A teammate (Iheanacho) had to come off without warming up and that, whether you like it or not, affected the first few minutes. But it doesn’t matter”, he explained at the post match presser.
“I think that if Isaac had been on the pitch the feeling would have been the same. In the second half we did go for the game. The break really allowed us to realise how badly we were doing and how well Alavés were doing”.
Meanwhile fellow Nigerian Chidera Ejuke who has started in Sevilla’s last three games dropped to the bench for this game, and was subbed on for the final 24 minutes. He is yet to register a goal or an assist but currently holds the record of the one with the most completed dribbles in the league.
