Former Real Madrid forward Hugo Duro has heaped praise on Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar following his commanding performances for Valencia, Soccernet.ng reports.
Sadiq swapped Real Sociedad for Valencia in a permanent €4.5 million deal during the January transfer window, and after a slow start, he has started making an impact at the Mestalla.
When he first joined, the heavy competition in Carlos Corberán’s attacking department initially limited his minutes, but the tide has turned in his favour since mid-February.
Since his crucial goal in a 2-0 win over Levante, Sadiq’s minutes has increased significantly, and last time out, he produced something a standout performance against Alaves.
Last weekend, in a tough game at the Estadio de Mestalla, both sides—battling to escape from the relegation zone—delivered a thriller. Alaves’ Lucas Boyé opened the scoring from the penalty spot, but the second half belonged to Los Che.
Sadiq was the architect of the equalizer, providing a beautiful assist for Javi Guerra in the 47th minute.
The Nigerian international was a constant menace to the Alaves backline, and at times, they had to use two markers to neutralize his threat.
Ultimately, late strikes from Hugo Duro and Eray Cömert secured a vital comeback victory for Valencia.
Watch Highlights of Valencia vs Alaves
”I'm Loving It” — Duro Concedes Starting Spot to In-Form Sadiq Umar
Despite seeing his own playing time reduced due to Sadiq’s arrival, Hugo Duro displayed great sportsmanship after the match.
Duro, who is Valencia’s top scorer this season, admitted that the Nigerian’s current form makes him impossible to drop.
”I’m playing less, and rightly so. Sadiq is spectacular both with and without the ball,” Duro said.
”The match he played was tremendous. We all need to be ready because you never know when your moment will come. To be honest, I don't know when Sadiq will stop looking like Pelé.”
In the same vein, Duro, who had a stint in his early career with Spanish giants Real Madrid, emphasized his commitment to the team's collective goal over his individual targets.
”I’ll be there fighting to get back in, but it’s his time right now, and deservedly so. I’m loving it, and I’m here to help the team, just like everyone else,” Duro added.
29-year-old Sadiq finally looks to have rediscovered the devastating form that made him a star at Almería four years ago.
If he continues with this his current form and continues to get involved in the goals, Valencia will definitely climb up the La Liga table.
