Odion Ighalo’s extended time at Manchester United wasn’t supposed to end like this...or perhaps the writing was always on the wall but supporters of the Nigeria forward were too emotional to realise it months ago.
The story of the retired Super Eagle’s Deadline Day move to boyhood club in January sparked so much fanfare and goodwill, while his subsequent efficiency in the cup competitions lifted the mood around the club — although Bruno Fernandes’ instant impact largely contributed to the feel-good factor at Old Trafford at the time.
However, then came the imposed lockdown in March owing to the coronavirus pandemic.