The Nigerian was on target as Manchester United booked their place in the semi-finals of the FA Cup with a 2-1 win over Norwich on Saturday evening at Carrow Road
Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hailed the impact of Odion Ighalo in his squad after the former Super Eagles star scored his fifth goal for United in the win over Norwich on Saturday.
Ighalo opened the scoring in the FA Cup quarterfinal clash between United and Norwich. The former Watford star fired United ahead six minutes after the break by poaching home from close range after Norwich’s defence failed to deal with a low cross properly.
The Canaries got back in the game through Todd Cantwell, but they had to finish the game with ten men after Timm close was sent off in the 89th minute.
But despite the extra man advantage, United had to wait till the 118th minute of extra time before getting the winners courtesy of a Harry Maguire finish.
Following the clash, Solskjaer praised his team, but he singled out the performance of Ighalo, saying he’s also been a massive influence on the side.
“It is cup football for you, the game was not the greatest spectacle but I felt we kept the ball OK but did not threaten much or create chances,” Solskjaer told BBC.
“Delighted to be in the last four and we got a good workout for many of the players. It’s nice for Harry Maguire to get the winner.
“It is great to have the option to rotate. Anthony Martial came on and did brilliant but Odion Ighalo gives me a chance to rotate and he is a proven goalscorer and played his part in both goals. He is a great person to have around the dressing room too.”
Ighalo is yet to start a Premier League game for United, but he’ll be hoping to do so when Solskjaer’s men take on Brighton on Tuesday.