Man Utd Hero Says Ighalo Brings Qualities Neither Rashford Or Martial Have

Manchester United Champions League-winner Owen Hargreaves has revealed how “surprised” he’d be if Odion Ighalo did not join the club on a permanent deal.

The experienced Nigeria striker was a shock signing for the Red Devils but he has proved many doubters wrong with his performances.

Hargreaves says Ighalo brings qualities neither Marcus Rashford or Anthony Martial have.

“He's a big United fan isn't he and he's done great, he's done really good, better probably than he could have hoped and Man United could have hoped and he's been a good addition to the team,” Hargreaves told talkSPORT.

“I think all the boys are really good athletes and quick and want to run in behind and get the ball into feet but he looks comfortable with his back to the goal.

“I love Marcus and Martial, love their game, but they're quite different in the sense that they want the ball into feet and they want to run in behind, whereas he's comfortable being a target man with people behind him and then getting the ball and people can run off him.”

Hargreaves has praised Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side for signing the 30-year-old Nigerian and expects them to pursue a permanent move.

“I think he's been a good fit for Man United and when you sign players you've got to get the right fit,” he added.

“It's not always about getting the best name, it's about getting the guy that you don't have that you need.

“He was somebody that whoever signed him hats off to you because he's given them something different.

“Hopefully he stays but there's the whole Sanchez situation when he comes back, Martial and Rashford, he's fit as well, Bruno [Fernandes] and [Paul] Pogba – you've got to get them all into a team, with Daniel James as well.

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“So he's been good, really good. I'm sure they'll try, if it's sensible, keep him longer. I'd be surprised if he left.”

This article was most recently revised and updated 4 years ago