Goalscorer Kelechi Iheanacho hailed the battling qualities of a youthful City side after Pep Guardiola’s men recovered from falling behind early on to secure a 1-1 draw with Celtic in their Champions League group finale.

Nigerian striker Kelechi cancelled out Patrick Roberts’ fourth minute opener for the visitors with a superb eighth minute strike at the Etihad Stadium.

The 20-year-old has now scored 13 times from just 18 starts for City.

And Kelechi – who is set to shoulder the responsibility of leading the City strikeforce with suspended for the next four league games, insisted the Blues could take plenty of positives from the way they responded to Roberts’ goal.

“It was a tough game today. They are a very good side with quality players. We are pleased to get the draw but it wasn’t the result we were looking for,” said Iheanacho.

“It was a great goal and a good response from our team collectively. I thank my team-mates because they put the effort in to give me the ball to score.

“I have a responsibility to be the striker for the team, replacing Sergio when he is not around.

“I have to prove myself, give my best and work hard for the team and make sure we get the wins we need.”