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Kelechi Iheanacho has urged Nigerian football fans to ditch their traditional allegiances and get behind Manchester City.

The 19-year-old Blues striker is currently on holiday in his homeland and while in his home city of Owerri he invited fans to join him for a celebration at a local hotel.

The Blues have made big strides in getting into the North American and Asian markets, but in Owerri the best-supported teams are Manchester United , Chelsea and Arsenal – their former striker Nwankwo Kanu is from the city.

Ihreanacho addressed the supporters, saying: “Please come and support Manchester City, I am with Manchester City so everyone should support the club instead of Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea.

“Owerri fans should show support for their brother.”

Iheanacho is expected back in City training next week, after the club decided not to release him to join up with the Nigeria under-23 team which will head to the Rio De Janeiro Olympics next month.