While many believe Odion Ighalo’s time in the national team has gone, a Nigerian coach is backing the 34-year old striker to return to Super Eagles group.
Ighalo retired from the national in 2019 after the AFCON in Egypt where he collected the Golden Boot being the top scorer of the tournament.
So far, other forwards like Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Onuachu and Taiwo Awoniyi to name but a few has grown up and playing at the highest stage.
However, Ighalo who is currently a free agent after leaving Saudi side Al Hilal has been always linked with a return to the national team.
If some are against his comeback as he had his time according to them, others like Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) FC head coach Abubakar Ibrahim belives the former Manchester United star still has something to offer for his country again.
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“Ighalo is a goal poacher, and I believe at his age, he still has a lot to offer to the national team,” Ibrahim told Daily Post Nigeria.
“He is a very humble guy who, during his time at Manchester United and Watford, did very well.
“He knows how to score goals, I think he won the top scorer award in the Saudi league last season ahead of Ronaldo.
“So, It would not be a bad idea should the Super Eagles manager invite him for Nigeria’s last 2023 AFCON qualifier against Sao Tome and Principe in September since they have already qualified for Ivory Coast 2023 in order to see his performance ahead of the tournament proper.
“His presence alone in the Super Eagles squad is a huge motivation for the younger players – Osimhen, Awoniyi and Chukwueze,” he added.