Jesse Lingard, 28, has been at Manchester United FC since 2000. As an academy graduate, he has truly worked his way up through the ranks of United and is now a senior player in the squad.
Lingard first played for the senior first team in 2011 (although both appearances that year were as an unused sub).
Our #14 was loaned out in 4 consecutive seasons to Leicester City, Birmingham City, Brighton and Hove Albion and Derby County.
His first senior goal came against West Bromwich Albion on the 7th Novemeber 2015. He made 40 appearances for the senior team that year, scoring 6 times and contributing 4 assists.
His most famous moment in a United shirt came in a grand stage. In the 2016 FA Cup final against Crystal Palace. Coming on at half-time, Lingard found the top corner with a half-volley to give United their 12th FA Cup trophy.
As well as an FA Cup to his name, Lingard has won the League Cup, Europa League, Community Shield and U21 Premier League with Manchester United.
Lingard’s Struggles
Lingard seemed at his best in the 2017/18 season, netting 13 goals and 7 assists in 48 appearances. He received a call-up to the England World Cup Squad, scoring 1 goal and providing 2 assists.
There are a multitude of different factors that have resulted in Lingard’s extended stay out of the first-team squad.
Since the introduction of our Portugese magnifico Bruno Fernandes on the 2nd January 2020, Lingard has only 16 appearances for United. It is this lack of first-team football that has inspired him to find another club.
Alongisde strong competition for places in the squad, Lingard has found it difficult to find consistency when he has played under multiple managers since his graduation from the academy. He has played for 6 managers, not allowing him to fully gain trust and support of anyone manager.
His most significant problem has concerned his personal life. Having to take care of his younger siblings, 12 and 15 as well as his mother made it difficult for him on the pitch.
Talking to manchester evening news, Lingard stated “Last season, I was going through some things off the field with my family so it was difficult for me to perform on the field”.
“I’m very family-orientated and my mum was going through some things last year with depression… she went to London to get that sorted out so in the meantime, I had to look after my little brother and sister who are 12 and 15″.
Current boss, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has helped Lingard off the pitch. Acting as a mentor to him to maintain confidence and to try and prove his haters and critics wrong.
What lies ahead for Jesse?
Lingard has said he’s “revitalised” and “excited … for a new chapter” (bbc.co.uk)
West Ham’s new no.11 joins ex-United manager David Moyes in a team that is finding form in the Premier League. Apart from a recent defeat to Liverpool, West Ham were unbeaten in 8 games in all competitions.
Moyes was asked what Lingard could bring to a flourishing West Ham team. The Hammers believe that Jesse will bring energy, effort and versatility West Ham will relish Lingard’s experience and enthusiasm in the dressing room.
The deal involves a 1.5m fee for Lingard, the London club will also pay the entirety of Lingard’s £100k a week salary.
West Ham fans will be excited by the prospect of an England international joining their ranks. Lingard will add quality to a top 7 contending side. “I can’t wait to show what I’ve got in store. I’m excited and I want to help the team push up the table as far as they can.” (Sportbible.com)
Solskjaer hopes that on this loan-deal, Lingard gets plenty of first-team minutes under his belt. “We want Jesse to come back here revitalised”, implying that there are plans ahead for Lingard in United’s squad.
