Odion Ighalo 'committed' to taking Manchester United to new heights after extending loan deal

Nigerian striker has endeared himself to the club's fans, scoring four goals in eight games

Manchester United's Odion Ighalo celebrates after scoring against Club Brugge at Old Trafford. PA

An undated handout picture shows Wayne Richardson, left, posing with Manchester United's Nigerian attacker Odion Ighalo at the National Taekwondo Centre in Manchester. AFP

Manchester United's Odion Ighalo celebrates scoring in the Europa League match against LASK. Reuters

Manchester United's Odion Ighalo during training. Reuters

Manchester United's Odion Ighalo arrives for training at Aon Training Complex in, Carrington, Manchester, on May 20, 2020. Reuters

Manchester United have extended Odion Ighalo's loan spell until January 2021. AFP

Juan Mata of Manchester United celebrates with Odion Ighalo after scoring his team's third goal during the Europa League round of 16 first leg match between LASK. Getty Images

Odion Ighalo has said he will work hard to help Manchester United reach new heights after extending his loan deal until January 2021.

Ighalo, 30, initially joined United from Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua in January until the end of this season and has endeared himself to the club's fans, scoring four goals in eight games.

The Nigerian striker was set to return to the CSL club on May 31 but a new agreement has been struck that will see him remain until at least the middle of next season.

"I'm buzzing and ready to go ... the last few days have been difficult as there have been different talks about it (future)," Ighalo told United's website.

"Now I've extended my loan, it makes it more even clear and I'm committed. I'm here until January ending. I just want to work hard and enjoy it, support the team and do whatever I can to make us go higher and higher."

United have nine games left to play in the league and are fifth in the Premier League table on 45 points, three points behind Chelsea, with the campaign set to resume on June 17.

They have all but sealed progress to the Europa League quarter-finals after a 5-0 win over LASK Linz in the first leg of their last-16 fixture.

"I can't wait for the league to start again," Ighalo said. "We did mention today there could be 15-16 games left before the season is finished. We're working hard and I believe we're going to do great.

"Everybody's looking good. Running, working hard and playing football. Little two-a-sides and doing some ball work. Everyone is getting better and better."

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