Former England international and Leicester City legend Gary Lineker has heaped praise on Ghanaian youngster Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, describing him as a “special kid” following his game-changing performance in Leicester City’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Southampton.
Fatawu, 19, came off the bench with Leicester trailing 2-0 and made an immediate impact, providing the crucial assist that sparked the Foxes’ comeback. His energy and skill were on full display as he dominated the opposition box, recording seven touches inside the penalty area – more than any other player on the field.
The Ghana international came close to scoring himself when his thunderous strike rattled the crossbar. His attacking threat continued, and he was pivotal in winning the penalty that Jamie Vardy converted to equalize at 2-2. In the dying moments of the game, Jordan Ayew netted a 97th-minute winner, completing a remarkable turnaround for Leicester City.
Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, Lineker, a lifelong Leicester fan, couldn’t hide his admiration for Fatawu’s performance. “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.’”
Fatawu’s influential display has led to questions about why he hasn’t been featured more regularly in the starting lineup. His dynamism and attacking prowess provided the spark Leicester needed to overturn the two-goal deficit, further cementing his growing reputation in English football.
With this standout performance, Fatawu continues to make his mark in the Premier League, and fans are eager to see more of the young Ghanaian talent in action as the season progresses.