Gary Lineker hails 'special' Fatawu Issahaku after Leicester City’s comeback win over Southampton
22nd October 2024
Former England football legend Gary Lineker has showered praise on Ghanaian international Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, calling him a 'special kid' after the winger's impressive performance in Leicester City’s thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Southampton.
Issahaku, who came off the bench with Leicester trailing 2-0, made an immediate impact, assisting the crucial goal that sparked the Foxes' turnaround.
The 21-year-old winger made seven touches in the opposition's box—more than any other player on the field.
He nearly scored himself, hitting the crossbar with a powerful shot, before winning a penalty after his header was stopped illegally, allowing Jamie Vardy to convert and level the score at 2-2. Jordan Ayew’s 97th-minute winner then completed Leicester’s remarkable comeback.
Lineker, a Leicester City legend, couldn’t hide his admiration for Issahaku’s influence. Commenting on the young talent’s performance, Lineker said, "What a comeback.
What a win. The game really changed when Abdul Fatawu came on. As a Leicester fan, my kids follow Leicester as well. Every time we see the teamsheet and he's not in it, we go, 'oh no, not again. Why is he not playing? This kid is special.'"
Despite his limited starting opportunities, Issahaku has consistently made a difference when introduced, raising questions about his role in the team’s lineup.
His assist and dynamic attacking play were key to Leicester’s comeback and have further enhanced his growing reputation in English football.
The Ghanaian winger will look to continue his fine form when Leicester City hosts Nottingham Forest on Friday at the King Power Stadium.