MILAN NO BIG DEAL – IGHALO MILAN NO BIG DEAL – IGHALO

By NBF News

Odion Ighalo
AC Cesena's Odion Ighalo is not under pressure going into Saturday's Serie A clash with giants AC Milan at the Stadio Dino Manuzzi.

The Egypt 2009 U-20 World Cup Flying Eagles captain scored three pre-season goals but was overlooked in Cesena's starting line-up in their season opener against AS Roma.

He said, 'Playing against AC Milan is not a big deal because I have played against Inter Milan and scored against Juventus when I was at Udinese. I'm ready to play against Milan if I am selected and playing at home will add to our confidence.'

Milan recently added Zlatan Ibrahimovic to their squad but Ighalo insists playing against the likes of the Swedish striker, Alexandre Pato, Ronaldinho and other Rossoneri superstars will inspire him to perform better in the Italian topflight.

'I think every player wants to play for or against Milan because of their array of superstars. Playing against these stars will boost my career this season,' the Edo-born forward said.

Ighalo said he was eyeing a return to the national team after he led the Flying Eagles to the second round of the U-20 World Cup last year.

'Nigeria is blessed with a lot of talented players and it will be a dream come true for me to represent my country one day. I am young but I can play with the senior payers because that will bring a perfect blend to the team.'

The 21-year-old had a fantastic 2009/10 season while on loan at Spanish third division side Granada from Udinese.

His 17 goals fired Granada to the second division after 23 years in the third division.