Jesse Lingard could be set for Old Trafford stay amidst Premier League interest
Jesse Lingard is a player who divides opinion, even among Manchester United fans.
Having come up through the youth ranks, he is a throwback to the successful days under Sir Alex Ferguson. However, his hit or miss performances on the pitch leave much to be desired.
With the United rebuild gathering pace under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Lingard’s position had been called into question. According to 90min (h/t Express), he could end up staying at the club until 2022, as the club consider enforcing a one-year extension.
Solskjaer has a good understanding of the player’s strengths, having managed him at the youth level. Lingard reached his zenith with the England squad at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He has been a pale shadow of the player since.
Playing primarily as a winger or attacking winger, he has just two goals and two assists in 35 appearances this season. An abysmal return whichever way you look at it.
Taking that into consideration, it makes sense that the club is set to offer him new terms as a squad player and not a first-teamer.
If he does, however, choose to move on, he will find himself in no shortage of suitors with four clubs keen. Leicester City, West Ham United, Newcastle United, and Everton are all willing to take a chance on the 27-year-old.
With Bruno Fernandes setting Old Trafford alight, Lingard has found appearances hard to come by since January. With the Red Devils keen on Aston Villa skipper Jack Grealish, Lingard could fall further down the pecking order.
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The 27-year-old has made 202 appearances for United over the years. A versatile player he can fill; in a number of positions if needed.
Lingard is, however, a very limited player. He should be nowhere near the first XI for a team competing to get back to the top. A good backup to have, it is up to Lingard to decide if he will be better off elsewhere, either way, United will not miss him much.
