Kelechi ready to step up

KELECHI Iheanacho is ready for the challenge of replacing Sergio Aguero as the prolific Manchester City striker takes an enforced break.

Aguero, who has scored 16 times this season, will miss City's next four games as punishment for his sending-off in last weekend's stormy loss to Chelsea.

That means a chance for 20-year-old Nigerian Iheanacho, who is likely to start in tomorrow's test at champions Leicester City (5.30pm kick-off).

Iheanacho (above) played himself into form with a goal as City rounded off their Champions League Group 'C' programme with a 1-1 draw against Celtic on Tuesday.

Iheanacho, who had made just six previous starts this season, said: "It's a big opportunity for me now.

"Sergio's not around so I have to take responsibility and fill the gap.

"I need to work really hard to prove myself to the team and help the team get these points we need in the Premier League."

Iheanacho made a positive impression after being promoted to the first-team squad by Manuel Pellegrini last season, scoring 14 goals. He has found opportunities harder to come by since Pep Guardiola took charge in the summer, but has still struck five times.

The nine changes made by City against Celtic indicated the greater importance of the trip to Leicester. Defender Pablo Zabaleta said: "Always it's a difficult place to go. Even if they are not doing great in the domestic competition they are still a good team, very competitive.

"It is going to be a tough game, we need to win and get three points."