Luke Shaw has revealed that Manchester United players were ‘really happy’ for Odion Ighalo after the striker extended his loan spell at Old Trafford.
Ighalo’s future was in doubt last week with some expecting the Nigerian to head back to China to rejoin parent club Shanghai Shenhua for the start of the delayed Chinese Super League season.
But Ighalo desperately wanted to continue his dream at his boyhood club where he has become an instant fan-favourite.
And the club confirmed on Monday that the 30-year-old will now remain at Old Trafford until January 30 2021, meaning Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can utilise him for another seven months yet.
Shaw, who has himself proved critics wrong this season, thinks Ighalo brings something different to United’s attacking options and has shown he belongs in a red shirt.
“We’ve already had some really good news at United this week with Odion extending his contract,” Shaw told the club’s official website.
“All the players are really happy for him. Obviously his situation was up in the air and we try not to talk about that kind of thing at training but we’re just so happy for him.
“Before he arrived, a few people outside the club weren’t too sure what he was going to bring to the club, but he’s shown everyone because he’s brought goals and a different style to our other strikers.
“He’s earned and deserved the chance to stay here longer. He brings happiness and a smile to the place.
“He’s great in training but he’s also been really important at times during games and scored some great goals.
Ighalo’s deadline day move in January understandably raised eyebrows as Solskjaer scoured the market for a number 9 after Marcus Rashford’s injury.
But four goals in just eight appearances has instated him as a cult-hero at Old Trafford and he has provided more than adequate attacking cover.
With United potentially fighting on three fronts when football resumes, Ighalo could play a vital role as the manager rotates his team.
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