One-cap Nigeria international Sikiru Olatunbosun has opined that the surprising but heartwarming move to English Premier League giants Manchester United by Odion Ighalo will have positive ramifications for Nigerian players.

Former Nigeria international Ighalo was a January transfer deadline loan signing for the Red Devils.

Olatunbosun spoke to allnigeriasoccer.com from his base on his expectations from the move of the former Shanghai Shenhua of China striker who was previously a player of Watford in the Premier League.

"For me, I think Odion ighalo's move to Manchester United has only beamed the searchlight on the Nigerian players and the up-and-coming talents and I think it can only improve the value of the Super Eagles," Olatunbosun, who now plies his trade for Menemenspor in Turkey, stated.

"I seriously believe that it will be a good time in England for Ighalo. Some people are already getting agitated as he has played two games without scoring but his opportunities will come. Both matches, he came off the bench," Olatunbosun stressed.

Ighalo was a second substitute in the EPL match against Chelsea on Monday which United won 2-0 and as well as the Europa League clash against Club Brugge of Belgium which ended in a 1-1 draw on Thursday.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has suggested that Ighalo's loan spell could be made permanent if he performs well and remains a positive influence on the team.

Izuchukwu Okosi