The former Super Eagles star has had limited game time since he arrived at Old Trafford, but the Norwegian insists he is still an important member of the squad
Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said Odion Ighalo remains a valuable member of the United squad despite the limited opportunities offered to the Nigerian.
Ighalo joined United on a loan deal from Shanghai Shenhua in January. Initially, the deal was supposed to keep him until the end of May, but it was extended for another seven months after the coronavirus disrupted the football calendar.
However, since joining Ighalo has had just a few opportunities to prove himself, and it came in the Europa League and domestic cup competitions.
The former Watford striker is yet to start a Premier League game and has fallen in the pecking order following the arrival of Edinson Cavani. But despite the situation, Solskjaer says Ighalo is still in his plans, praising him for his past performances.
Ahead of United’s opening Champions League clash against Paris Saint Germain (PSG), Nigerian journalist, Ojora Babatunde asked Solskjaer why Ighalo has not been offered more playing time.
Replying to the question, the Norwegian said: “We have had some very good performances from Odion, and he’s still a very important part of the squad.”
United’s game against PSG could see Ighalo make his Champions League debut with his chances boosted by the absence of Cavani in the squad.