'An exceptional guy' - Valencia coach explains why he will not change in-form striker Sadiq

Valencia coach Carlos Corberán has expressed his admiration for Umar Sadiq's personality, insisting he has no intention of changing the striker's character or sense of humour.

Sadiq returned to Valencia for a second spell during the January transfer window, this time completing a permanent move after ending his association with Real Sociedad.

The Super Eagles forward is currently enjoying an impressive run of form, having scored three goals in his last four appearances in the Spanish top flight.

In addition to his goalscoring exploits, Sadiq has also become more influential creatively, registering three assists in his last 11 La Liga matches.

Speaking during Wednesday’s press conference, Corberán praised Sadiq's contribution to the squad, stressing that cultural diversity are important elements within the dressing room.

"The thing is, no two footballers are ever the same in a locker room, no two people are ever the same,” Corberán was quoted as saying by Futbol Fantasy.

"We all come from different families, different cultures and different countries, and we have to enrich ourselves and bring out the best in each other."

The Valencia boss explained that every player has areas they can improve, but emphasised that his comments were not directed specifically at Sadiq.

"But I’m not talking about Sadiq, I’m talking about all of us. Learn from the good things we all have, improve in the areas where we aren’t our greatest strengths, and that’s it.

"Sadiq is an exceptional guy, a player whose sense of humour is part of his personality. I don’t want to change him, I’m not going to change him, and I don’t intend to change him."

During his first spell at Valencia in the second half of last season, Sadiq scored six goals in 19 appearances across all competitions, playing a key role in helping the club avoid relegation.

“He’s here at the club because we really liked what he gave us last year. He offers the team very good options, so we’re happy with that," Corberán added.

Sadiq will be hoping his recent fine form has caught the attention of Eric Chelle, who is expected to unveil his squad for the upcoming friendlies against Poland and Portugal in the coming days.