'Disrespectful' - PAOK's Nigerian midfielder vows not to celebrate if he scores against Man Utd

Emotions will be running through the head of Newcastle-born Nigerian attacking midfielder Shola Shoretire on Thursday night when PAOK battle Premier League giants Manchester United in a Europa League clash at Old Trafford. 

Shoretire was on the books of the Red Devils for about nine years, rising through the ranks to make his professional debut in a 3-1 home win against his hometown club Newcastle United in February 2021.

In search of first team opportunities, the talented youngster made a bold decision to move to PAOK from Manchester United in the summer transfer window at just twenty years of age, turning down a new deal in the process. 

Shoretire has appeared in eight matches since his transfer to PAOK, three of which he started.

At the pre-match press conference on Wednesday evening, Shoretire made it clear he won't celebrate if he finds the net against his former employers, and he stuck to his words when quizzed by Manchester United's official website. 

"Just out of respect to Manchester United, what they have done for me. I am in this position because of them so I think it will be a bit disrespectful to celebrate in front of the fans,” Shoretire said. 

With only one point from their opening three matches in the Europa League, Shoretire is aware he has to put friendship to one side as he attempts to help PAOK secure their first win in the league phase. 

"Of course. Why play if we don't believe we can win? We have worked hard in training, wo we'll give it a good go. Hopefully we can get three points.

"I appreciate everything United have done. Like I said we are here to win so we have to forget about the friendship and just give our all on the pitch."

Aged 17 years and 23 days on February 25, 2021, Shoretire became the youngest player to represent Manchester United in European competition when he made his debut in the Europa League in a goalless draw against Real Sociedad.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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