Lingard could still have a role at Reds
IN an ideal world Jesse Lingard would no longer be a United player.
The Reds have been keen to move unwanted squad players on this summer, and the forward will be craving the chance of a fresh start in which his footballing ability can once again take centre stage.
His time at United has seen the unrivalled heights of scoring a Wembley winner in the FA Cup final, but has also been juxtaposed with toxic social media treatment and his own behaviour off the pitch.
Lingard’s camp have encouraged ongoing links with a transfer to Tottenham, but it is understood Jose Mourinho has no interest in the England international.
The 27-year-old has entered the last year of his United contract, although the club has the option of an additional year. And he does quite clearly have something to offer the team in such a gruelling season.
Lingard continues to impress with his fitness levels in training, is highly respected by his team-mates and, as shown against Luton Town on Tuesday night, still has the ability to make an impact on the pitch.
“I thought he was bright,” Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said of the midfielder. “I thought he’s getting closer to a goal. He’s got legs. Bright and busy today I thought.”
Lingard was looking to make it three goals in three games having scored against Leicester and LASK at the end of last season. However, it was safe to say he was trying too hard in front of goal at Luton.
That in itself is a positive rather than an issue as he looks to show his
worth to both Solskjaer or a potential suitor. Instead of throwing his toys out of the pram, Lingard has remained focused in recent weeks, and is letting his football do the talking once again.
He remains one of the most popular members of the first-team set-up at Old Trafford, and although often mocked for his sometimes juvenile behaviour, he is highly respected by the academy stars looking to make their own breakthrough into the side.
While his stock has fallen in recent years, Lingard deserves more credit than many social media users show him.
He was instrumental in the club’s last four trophy triumphs, and is a genuine success story of the loan system having had to fight for his chance to be a regular.
If a respectable offer comes in before transfer deadline day it still remains best for both club and player if Lingard leaves, but if he ends up staying at least he is showing the hard work and desire which make him worthy of a wider squad role.