Fired-up Jesse just job for Jose

JESSE LINGARD is ready to kick-start Manchester United’s push for a top four place after finally putting injury and World Cup fatigue behind him.

The United star admits his efforts with England in Russia left him battling a groin problem which contributed to his stop-start campaign.

But after firing in United’s second goal in Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford, he claimed he is now fully fit and “raring to go”.

Lingard said: “I played a lot of games last season and, coming off the World Cup, it kind of took a toll.

Problem

“I wasn’t really 100 per cent fit. Obviously we didn’t get much rest in the summer after the World Cup, so coming back there’s always going to be little niggles here and there.

“It got to a point where I couldn’t carry on. But a short break did me well and I am raring to go now and can’t wait to kick on.”

Lingard returned from Russia with a abductor tear and initially felt rest would correct the problem.

Yet that failure to tackle the injury properly saw him carry the injury into the season, forcing him to miss five matches in September and October.

“It was a good campaign for me on a personal level last season and an enjoyable summer and I wanted to start this term in the same form,” he said.

“Obviously you have setbacks but it’s how you bounce back.

“I scored against Arsenal and now I am raring to go. I always seem to start scoring in December.”

Manager Jose Mourinho may have been frustrated with two points dropped but he will have seen much to like in the performance.

Not least the collective team spirit after controversial midfielder Paul Pogba was left on the bench.

United have conceded the first goal in nine of their 15 games this season.

And while they have rescued three draws and two victories from those positions, Lingard admits repeatedly having to come from behind is a worry.

He said: “We never give up – you’ve seen over the years the comebacks that United have made. So for us to just keep that spirit alive is good.

“But of course going in front would help. Leading the game, especially going in at half-time ahead, always puts you in a comfortable position.

“Pretty much the first 20 seconds got the crowd up on their feet and it kind of gave us a buzz after that.

“We had to put on a performance for the fans and show the passion on the pitch for them.”