Odion Ighalo Sign Shanghai Shenhua

Odion Ighalo says Obafemi Martins is a role model for him and advised him Shanghai Shenhua switch.

Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has hailed Obafemi Martins for the role in his switch to Shanghai Shenhua.

Ighalo recently completed a move to Shanghai Shenhua from fellow Chinese Super League (CSL) outfit Changchun Yatai.

Ighalo was linked with a host of top club sides in Europe after Changchun Yatai suffered relegation to the second division of football in China.

The Nigerian striker turned down a return to Europe as he decided to continue his career in China.

Speaking at his unveiling in for Shanghai Shenhua, Ighalo stated that Martins is a role model for him as a Nigerian professional footballer.

Ighalo explained in his press conference that the veteran played a huge role in his move.

Ighalo said, “Martins is my idol. I respect him very much. He has achieved great success in his career.

”When I knew that I had the opportunity to come to Shenhua, I sent a message to Martins, who told me that Shenhua is a very good club, Shenhua’s home and fans are very good.”

At the unveiling event in Kangqiao, Ighalo also explained the reason he chose to continue his career in China.

He said, ”I made a decision after talking with him, I can really join this team. There are other teams in the Super League who invited me, but I chose Shenhua. 

”I am very satisfied with this decision. I have only been here for two days, but I enjoy the time I have worked, and I can’t wait to start this journey.”

Ighalo could make his debut for Shanghai Shenhua when the CSL resumes against Shanghai SIPG on Friday, March 1.