The Red Devils striker called time on his international career last year after finishing the 2019 AFCON on a high
Super Eagles goalkeeper coach Alloy Agu has confessed that the Nigerian national team was shocked by the retirement of Odion Ighalo, likening it to the time Victor Moses left the team in 2018.
On-loan Inter Milan star Moses played a crucial role as a Stephen Keshi-led side triumphed at the 2013 African Cup of Nations in South Africa, Nigeria’s third continental title.
But the pacey winger ended his time with the Super Eagles after the 2018 World Cup at the age of 29.
Ighalo, who netted 16 goals in 35 international matches, followed the footsteps of the Inter Milan winger after the AFCON last year.
The on-loan Man United forward is considering a return to coach Gernot Rohr’s side after impressing at Old Trafford following his transfer in January.
Agu believes it is a welcome development despite the Super Eagles already boasting the goal-scoring qualities of Victor Osimhen.
“It feels good to hear that,” the Nigerian coach told Premium Times via Complete Sports.
“Ighalo is one the finest strikers around, and his earlier decision to retire from the national team really came to us a shock, just the way we felt when Victor Moses opted out.
“It was a huge blow when Moses said he wanted to focus on club football and family.
“You can imagine how painful it was when Ighalo said the same thing. Honestly, Ighalo is welcome if he wants to play for Nigeria again.
“I’m not saying the strikers on the ground are not good enough, but the return of Ighalo will bring an addition sparks to Super Eagles attack.”