Ighalo: Now I can get on with doing my job

ODION Ighalo says he is ‘buzzing and ready to go’ after extending his loan deal to stay at United.

The Nigerian arrived Old Trafford on a four-month loan deal from Shanghai Shenhua in January. That was due to end on Sunday, but the Reds have struck a deal with the Chinese Super League club to keep him until January.

“I’m really happy,” said Ighalo, who has been training with United for the last two weeks. “It’s a dream for me to be here. I’m buzzing and ready to go.

“I feel okay. The last few days have been difficult as there have been different talks about staying, but now I’m really happy so I need to concentrate fully. I’m here until the end of January, so it’s good for me.

“Since the first day I arrived, I made it clear I wanted whatever it takes to continue that work.

“It was very difficult, there were some talks, but I’m happy they finally agreed and got everything done. Everything is official now.

“I’m sending thanks to the Shanghai president and director for the support because they know this is what I want. So I’m thanking them and I’m happy that this has happened. They wish me all the best too.

“Since I was young, I’ve been supporting this club and playing for it is a dream. Now I’ve extended my loan, it makes it more even clear and I’m committed as I know, in my head, I’m here until January ending. I just want to work hard and enjoy it, support the team and do whatever I can to make us go higher and higher.”

Ighalo grew up as a United fan and scoring for the club is an experience he will never forget.

“Seeing it happen, it’s very difficult for me to explain the feelings inside. I just want to say it’s a great moment I’m going to cherish for the rest of my life,” the 30-year-old added.

“Seeing the club from the outside,

Man United or Manchester United and all that, being inside, you know you’re playing for one of the biggest teams in the world. Everything looks different inside it.

“The way they take care of you, the way the staff work there, everything. The younger lads and the way they work, they’re growing and maturing and getting into the team.

“And, especially, the hospitality as they make sure everything is 100 per cent okay. They check you, even if you’re at home, to see if you’re okay or you need anything.

“It’s different from where I’m coming from and different to where I was before. It’s something I’ve never seen before and it makes me wonder if I’m dreaming or it’s reality.”