By Ebube Dike

Super Eagles attacker, Kelechi Iheanacho’s lone goal was all Leicester City needed to overcome
League Two strugglers Gillingham and reach the 4th Round of the FA Cup

Iheanacho scored in the 56th minute off Jamie Vardy’s assist as the Foxes struggled to break down the host

Iheanacho claimed his 16th career goal in the competition as the 2021 winners avoided a major upset at the expense of the club languishing at the bottom of the English Football League.

Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers made eight changes for the tie and watched his side dominate a tight opening period but struggle to break down dogged hosts in blustery conditions.

Jamie Vardy, one of the three men retained, was restricted to just eight first-half touches and left frustrated after being denied a sixth-minute opener by Gills keeper Turner following a fine pass from Marc Albrighton.

Gillingham have gone 12 league games without a win, dating back to October 1, in a dismal 2022-23 season which has brought only seven goals.

Iheanacho later curled narrowly wide at the other end, while Turner was alert to tip over Albrighton’s dipping effort just after the restart.

Youri Tielemans’ cross from the right was turned back across goal by Kasey McAteer and, following a touch from Vardy, the unmarked Iheanacho lashed home only his second goal of the season.

Vardy almost doubled the visitors’ lead after racing clear but a strong hand from Turner pushed the ball around his left post.

Leicester had a number of promising openings to seal progression, with Iheanacho and Vardy each squandering opportunities to combine.

The goal is Kelechi Iheanacho’s 16th in 22 FA Cup matches.