MAN UTD LOAN EXTENTION: The last few days have been difficult, Ighalo admits

.Nigerian star thanks Shanghai president for the support

Former Super Eagles forward Odion Ighalo has admitted that the last few days before signing his 'dream' Manchester United loan extension until January was very tough.

The 30-year-old agreed to remain at Old Trafford on a temporary deal until the end of January 2021 from Shanghai Shenhua earlier this week.

And now Ighalo, who has made an impact at United, has expressed his joy at lengthening his stay at the Red Devils.

'I'm really happy. It's a dream for me to be here. I'm buzzing and ready to go,' he told MUTV.

'The last few days have been difficult as there have been different talks about it but now I'm really happy so I need to concentrate fully. I'm here until the end of January, so it's good for me.

'I decided I want to stay and I'm happy. Since the first day I arrived, I made it clear that I wanted whatever it takes to continue that work. It was very difficult, there were some talks, but I'm happy they finally agreed and got everything done. Everything is official now.

'I'm sending thanks to the Shanghai president and director for the support because they know this is what I want. So I'm thanking them and I'm happy that this has happened. They wish me all the best too.'

Ighalo initially joined Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's United in a shock deadline-day move in January.

He has notched four goals in eight games. His memorable strikes so far in a United shirt have included a stunning volley in the Europa League win over LASK Linz as well as a double in the FA Cup against Derby to help his side through to the quarter-final stage.

Ighalo's current contract in China expires in December 2022, but Shanghai want to keep him until at least December 2024.