Odion Ighalo has responded to the criticisms that has since trailed his invitation to the Super Eagles squad ahead of Nigeria’s World Cup play-off against eternal rivals Ghana.
Ighalo retired from international football after the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, where he finished as competition’s top scorer with the Super Eagles claiming the bronze medal.
The 32-year-old however made his return in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Cape Verde last year.
Recall that Ighalo was included in Nigeria’s squad for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon, but was not released by his former Saudi Arabia Professional Football League club Al Shabab.
The former Watford player was named in the 32-man provisional squad for the World Cup playoff against Ghana on Thursday, with his inclusion being questioned my many.
“I don’t pay attention to that,” he told ESPN.
“Everything they’re saying is their own cup of tea. At my age, I just signed to a new team. This is my 11th team in my professional career.
“I have been called up, I will take my bag and I will go to represent my country and give my best on 100%.
“As long as I come out from every game and I’m satisfied with my performance — whether it is a win, loss, or draw — then that’s it. I’m a professional footballer. This is what I’ve been doing for 17-18 years so why would I be worried about what people say?”
