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Odion Ighalo keen to prove worth to Watford

Watford's Odion Ighalo celebrates
Image: Watford's Odion Ighalo: Keen to shine in Premier League

Odion Ighalo says he has turned down 'crazy money' to stay at Watford rather than move to China - and is in talks about improving his current deal.

Watford had accepted an offer of £10m from Hebei China Fortune for the striker, who was being offered a four-year deal worth £2.5m a year, but is desperate to prove his worth in the Premier League.

He said: “I love the fans and turning down the money shows that I want to work hard for Watford, but they have to get me an improved contract and reward me for what I did last season.”

It is understood that two other Premier League clubs are interested in the striker - who scored 20 league goals in 35 appearances – but no bids have been made.

The club are back in pre-season training under new coach Quique Sanchez Flores - and the new man in charge has made a big impression on Troy Deeney.

Watford's Troy Deeney during the Sky Bet Championship match at Vicarage Road, Watford.
Image: Troy Deeney: Impressed by new Watford boss Quique Sanchez Flores

The club skipper, who has signed a new five-year deal, told Sky Sports News HQ: "To be honest before he came I didn't know too much about him but since he has come in he has got my respect massively.

"He's very much on his job; he knows what we need and knows what he wants and he gets his points across very easily and I think that shows how good a person he is. Everyone knows their job straight away.

"You have to have respect for anyone that comes in but especially someone that has worked at a higher level than Watford. Sometimes the manger might have to earn that respect but he has got that instantly. He doesn't treat anyone differently and the work we have been doing has been real tough but really enjoyable."

Matej Vydra has also committed his future to the club having already spent two loan spells at Vicarage Road.

Matej Vydra of Watford celebrates after opening the scoring against Sheffield Wednesday
Image: Matej Vydra: Has committed his future to the Hornets

He said: "Every year in the past I have changed club and I had to meet new players but now I know my future, and I know these players, so I am very happy to be here.

"Promotion last season was great and the fact that we are now in the Premier League - and that I was offered a contract - made the decision very easy for me."

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