Former Manchester United forward Odion Ighalo says he would soon make a decision regarding a possible return to the Nigeria national team.
The 31-year-old announced his retirement from international duty in 2019 after helping the Super Eagles finish third at the Africa Cup of Nation, where he emerged as the top scorer.
The forward gave a good account of himself during his spell with Premier League giants Manchester United.
Ighalo left the Red Devils in January after the expiration of his contract to sign for Saudi Professional League side Al Shabab and has hit the ground running with three goals and one assist in only five league appearances.
Owing to his impressive performance, Ighalo has been contacted by the national team coach Gernot Rohr about a possible a return.
However, the former Watford star has now revealed he would take a decision regarding the request as he has respect for his country and the German tactician.
“I have been approached by the coach, but I haven’t decided yet whether this is a path I want to follow again,” Ighalo told BBC Sport Africa.
“We’ve been talking about it for a while and hopefully soon I will make that decision.
“I need to decide because I have huge respect for my country and the coach, so it’s only fair to let people know where you stand.”
Ighalo scored 16 goals in 35 appearances for the three-time African champions before his abrupt retirement from the national team.
The forward was heavily criticized for his failure to score a begging opportunity against Argentina at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he Super Eagles were eliminated at the group stage.
Ighalo was almost headed for the national team exit door in the wake of this criticism but the striker was pleaded with to remain and went on to score seven goals at the 2019 Afcon in Egypt.