Does Lingard have a future at Man Utd?

Martin Macdonald

16 Aug 2021 13:38 BST
3 min read

Lingard would have been ‘perfect’ Man Utd player in Ronaldo and Rooney era – Neville — © ProShots

On the opening weekend of the new Premier League season, Manchester United put down a marker by destroying Leeds 5-1 at Old Trafford.

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Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick, while Mason Greenwood and Fred also got on the scoresheet.

Paul Pogba also recorded four assists which is more than he managed in the entirety of the 2020/21 season in the Premier League.

The comprehensive result came despite Edinson Cavani and Marcus Rashford being out injured and new £73 million signing Jadon Sancho being put on the bench.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer now has an array of talent at his disposal, particularly in attacking areas, but one man who didn't feature on Saturday despite being available was Jesse Lingard, who wasn't even in the squad.

He didn't play a single minute in the first half of last season which led to West Ham taking him on loan in January and not only did he impress in London, but was outstanding.

In his six months with the Hammers he scored more league goals (nine) than in any full season with Man Utd.

Overall, he recorded 13 goals contributions in 16 starts as he helped West Ham return to Europe with a sixth place finish.

Though West Ham want to make the move permanent, they have been unable to meet Man Utd's asking price so far, while Solskjaer recently revealed that Lingard was currently in his plans for the upcoming campaign.

Lingard himself has previously stated he would be open to a permanent transfer, but that hasn't materialised yet.

Solskjaer on Lingard's future

West Ham goalkeeper Darren Randolph even sent Lingard a message on social media encouraging him to make the move.

In Solskjaer's mind, however, it appears Lingard will receive game time in Manchester this season.

"Don’t forget Jesse Lingard," the Norwegian said when asked about his attacking options following the Leeds victory.

"He’s reinvented himself and he has come back the man that we know. With the quality [he has], he is going to play a big part. I forgot him when I spoke about goalscorers but he’s shown last season.

"Of course, there could be more rotation. We’ll be fresher. You have to have a big and strong squad to be competitive in this league. It’s the best league in the world.

"We’ve got to be lucky with injuries. I am looking forward to working with these of course."