Solskjaer Makes Ighalo Decision Ahead Of United’s FA Cup Clash Against Watford

The striker’s last appearance for the Red Devils was in the 3-1 loss to PSG, but he could be involved against his former club on Saturday

Manchester United manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, has said Odion Ighalo could have his final swansong when United take on Watford in their FA Cup third-round match at Old Trafford.

Ighalo joined United on a loan deal last January, and it was supposed to last until the end of May. However, United decided to extend it for another seven months due to the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

But the extension has not gone according to plan for him with just four appearances for Manchester United this season.

The ex Nigerian international has just one substitute appearance in both the league and champions league with the other two appearances coming in the Carabao cup.

However, Solsjkaer revealed Ighalo could face his former club on Saturday in what could be his farewell appearance at Manchester United.

“Odion, it’s special for him against Watford. He will be involved; he’s in the squad. He’s been training really well, Solskjaer told United Website.

I was just saying before, I don’t know how many goals he scored, but he was the top scorer by a mile in the round-robin we just had in training.

Despite his lack of minutes, Solskjaer revealed Ighalo has not lost any of his sharpness and has always been a true professional.

“So he’s not lost any of his sharpness or his quality. It’s been difficult for him to be out of the squad as many times of course because he did really well up to the summer.

“This season he’s not had as many opportunities, but he’s never let himself down as a professional and a human being.”

“In training, he always works hard, and he’s been a positive influence in the dressing room. He’s in the squad, and hopefully, I don’t need to put him on that we need goals, but hopefully, he can join in,” Solskjaer added.

Ighalo’s loan deal United expires at the end of January, but he is reportedly attracting interest from premier league clubs while a move to the middle east has also been mooted.