Cyriel Dessers Ruled Out For The Rest Of The Season As Michael O’Neill Praises Kelechi Iheanacho’s Impact

Nigerian forward Cyriel Dessers is set to miss the remainder of the 2025–2026 season after opting to undergo surgery on a persistent thigh injury, dealing a significant blow to Panathinaikos F.C.’s hopes of having him back before the end of the campaign. According to reports from European media, the striker is expected to be sidelined for approximately three months following the procedure.

The injury is understood to have originated during the 2025 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, where the forward was forced to withdraw before making an appearance for Nigeria’s Super Eagles. After the tournament, Dessers returned to Greece to continue treatment, and although early updates in February suggested he was nearing a comeback, subsequent medical assessments revealed incomplete healing, leading to the decision to proceed with surgery.

The 32-year-old, who joined the Athens-based side from Rangers F.C. last summer after a stint with U.S. Cremonese, has endured a stop-start debut season, registering two goals and one assist in five league appearances.

Meanwhile in Scotland, Michael O’Neill has commended Kelechi Iheanacho for his growing influence at Celtic F.C. following a crucial contribution at the weekend. Iheanacho ended a 182-day goal drought by netting in the 82nd minute to secure a 2-1 victory over Dundee F.C., keeping Celtic firmly in contention in the title race.

The strike marked his fourth goal of the season and his first since early October. Speaking ahead of their upcoming fixture against St Mirren F.C., O’Neill praised the forward’s dedication, resilience, and positive influence within the squad, highlighting his work ethic and support for teammates despite battling injuries.