Sunday 28 February 2016 08:12, UK
Manchester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho has thanked Manuel Pellegrini for giving him a chance to shine this season even if he doesn't start the Capital One Cup final.
The teenager has made a big impact since being moved into Pellegrini's first-team squad, taking his opportunity when injuries struck City and saw Sergio Aguero and Wilfried Bony sidelined.
Iheanacho has scored nine goals this season, despite only starting seven games, and he stole the show by scoring a hat-trick in their 4-0 win over Aston Villa in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
He may be restricted to an appearance off the bench on Sunday at Wembley, when City look to open their trophy account by beating Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool, but he is grateful to Pellegrini just to be in that position.
He said: "I am very happy to be in the Capital One Cup final. I am looking forward to it. If I start it is fine but if I am a substitute I will just wait to get a go.
"I am happy to be scoring a few goals this season. It has not been easy but I think the hard work has worked so I will continue working hard every day in training and games.
"I am very happy to hear that from the boss and to not sign another striker. He believes in me, trusts in me, so I need to give him the best and give the team the best."
Iheanacho says Aguero is proving to be a fine role model to learn the game from, and he hopes to have more time playing alongside the Argentina international.
He added: "I am learning a lot from him. He is a good player, so watching him every day and playing alongside him is a great privilege.
"I am happy playing alongside him and think I am learning a lot and improving. It is a very good experience and I fit in that role playing alongside him."
