Ex-Super Eagles star, Odion Ighalo is looking forward to playing against one of his striking idols, Wayne Rooney when Manchester United take on Derby County in the Emirates FA Cup.
The Nigerian has warned the Reds that Philip Cocu’s outfit will go into tonight’s game with a renewed sense of belief, thanks, in part, to Rooney’s exemplary record in front of goal.
“Wayne Rooney is always an idol, like many players at United,” Ighalo told Manutd.com.
“He’s a good guy. He is a fighter on the pitch, he fights until the end, from the start until the finish. He’s somebody I’ve seen that never gives up in the game, and he’s a good goalscorer.
“A little chance, a little space, he’s going to score. He can shoot from outside, he can score in the box, he can score from anywhere.
“He’s a great player. Good techniques, he has a good shot, good runs and, when Derby County have Wayne Rooney in their team, it gives them more confidence because he has done a lot in football and in England.”
Ighalo could make his first appearance for the Reds in the FA Cup, although the Nigerian does have a history in the famous old tournament.
United and Ighalo are, of course, hunting for a record-equalling 13th cup triumph.
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Arsenal are currently the side with the most overall successes in the competition.
This article was most recently revised and updated 5 years ago
