Manchester United are counting on Odion Ighalo to score goals and help the team make a successful push for the UEFA Champions League.

Ighalo returned to the English Premier League with Manchester United in the January transfer window on a six month loan deal, which could be turned permanent, according to Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The Nigerian striker has made three appearances for the club across the League and UEFA Europa League, playing less than 70 minutes, but has also failed to find the back of the net.

Regardless, teammate Juan Mata is backing the loan signing to come good for the Reds.

In an interview with the club’s website before Sunday’s league game at Old Trafford against Watford, Mata expressed confidence in Ighalo’s experience and praised the Striker’s personality.

“Odion has experience of playing in the Premier League and hopefully he will score many goals for us from now until the end of the season,” Mata added.

“As the manager said, he’s a good character as well and he’s got a good personality which has fitted straight into the dressing room.

“The better he does, then the better for us – and I wish him all the best.”

Ighalo was handed his Old Trafford debut on Sunday against his former club, Watford.

Manchester United won by 3-0 courtesy of goals from Bruno Fernandes, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood.