Odion Ighalo says he underwent a difficult period prior to extending his loan with Manchester United, but insists he is now "buzzing" after a deal was confirmed on Monday.
The Nigerian forward made a blistering start to his United career, scoring four goals in eight games prior to the Premier League's suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The 30-year-old - who has supported United since he was a child - repeatedly stated his desire to remain in Manchester beyond his initial six-month loan deal, with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also desperate for him to stay.
And after weeks of negotiations with parent club Shanghai Shenhua, Ighalo's deal was extended until January 2021 - and the forward is now "raring to go" with the Premier League to resume later this month.
“I'm really happy,” he said on MUTV Group Chat “It's a dream for me to be here. I'm buzzing and ready to go.
"The last few days have been difficult as there have been different talks about it but now I'm really happy so I need to concentrate fully. I'm here until the end of January, so it's good for me.
“I decided I want to stay and I'm happy. Since the first day I arrived, I made it clear that I wanted whatever it takes to continue that work.
"It was very difficult, there were some talks, but I'm happy they finally agreed and got everything done. Everything is official now.
“I'm sending thanks to the Shanghai president and director for the support because they know this is what I want. So I'm thanking them and I'm happy that this has happened. They wish me all the best too.
“Like I've said, since I was young, I've been supporting this club and playing for it is a dream.
"Now I've extended my loan, it makes it more even clear and I'm committed as I know, in my head, I'm here until January ending.
"I just want to work hard and enjoy it, support the team and do whatever I can to make us go higher and higher.”
