Former England international Darren Bent is delighted that the Nigerian forward has silenced his critics with his performances since joining the Red Devils.
The one-time Tottenham Hotspur forward is pleased with himself for not joining the bandwagon of those who lashed at Manchester United for ending up with Odion Ighalo during the rush hours of January transfer deadline day.
With United desperately in need of attacking options following an injury to key striker Marcus Rashford, manager Ole Gunnar Solksjaer sanctioned the temporary acquisition of Ighalo with minutes left to the close of the transfer window.
Many – including former Red Devils legends Paul Scholes and Dimitar Berbatov – were not impressed with the latest arrival to Old Trafford, questioning his quality.
But Ighalo has responded in the best way possible, smashing in four goals in just eight appearances for the 20-time English champions, and winning the hearts of fans in the process.
The 30-year-old Nigerian’s excellent displays could earn him a permanent switch to Old Trafford, and Bent has revealed that he knew it was going to end this way.
“I know a lot of people question the signing, but I was always one that said it does make a little bit of sense,” Bent said on talkSPORT, in quotes carried by Goal.
“They [Manchester United] didn’t seem to get hold of anybody, and he was willing to come there and take a pay cut from what he was earning [in China].
“He’s got pedigree in the Premier League. He’s been up to speed and has been absolutely brilliant. Whether they will keep him beyond this season, I can’t see it, but at the minute, he’s been absolutely fantastic.
“Everything has gone well for Ighalo. Manchester United have not had to pay much money for him, and he wasn’t to be there.
“He’s spoken about how much he loves Manchester United. He’s been a shining light and someone they [United] needed,” Bent added.