Ighalo training away due to virus concern

ODION Ighalo has not been working at United’s training base since joining the club due to concerns over the coronavirus.

The striker didn’t fly out with the squad to their training camp in Spain, with the Reds concerned about border restrictions after the Nigeria international, who signed on loan from Shanghai on deadline day, arrived from China.

The club feared Ighalo might not have been allowed back into the UK had he travelled to Spain due to a tightening of regulations regarding people who had been in China within the previous 14 days.

It has now emerged United have asked Ighalo not to train at their AON Complex at Carrington during this 14-day incubation period. The 30-year-old former Watford player has instead been working on his fitness at a city centre location close to where he is staying, using a personalised fitness programme from the club.

United recognise the chances of Ighalo having been exposed to the coronavirus are statistically minute, but have taken the decision after considering all aspects of their business.

Ighalo has not played a competitive match since December 6 but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has indicated he will be in contention to make his debut against Chelsea on Monday night.

“He is going to travel with us,” said Solskjaer. “We will just see his fitness work this week and I think we will get him sharp. We want to integrate him as quickly as we can because, of course, he is desperate to play for us.”