Pranav Nair
Manchester United vs Liverpool could decide the future of Jesse Lingard
According to the Mirror, the future of Jesse Lingard at Manchester United could be decided by our FA Cup clash against Liverpool.
The versatile attacker has largely been a peripheral player for the club this season. With a number of clubs keen to sign him, United are set to make a decision on Lingard’s future after the game.
A regular under both Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho, Lingard has struggled to hold onto a spot under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. The 28-year-old has made just three appearances this season. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Lingard is keen to move in search of regular playing time elsewhere. While Newcastle United and Sheffield United are ready to take him on, United are yet to make up their mind. (h/t Mirror)
Solskjaer is keen to keep all options available given what could be a hectic schedule pileup. With Europa League fixtures and a title challenge to tackle, the Norwegian’s need to maintain strength in depth is understandable.
Despite his lack of opportunities, Solskjaer believes Lingard can be trusted when called upon. The Englishman made a rare appearance for United in our FA Cup third round fixture against Watford.
No say in his own destiny?
The prospect of Lingard playing tonight against Liverpool seems remote. The 28-year-old was not amongst the players seen checking into the Lowry Hotel. (h/t MEN)
While this does not mean he cannot yet feature, the chances of him doing so appear remote. Lingard is not amongst our best players and realistically should not be expected to feature against Liverpool provided everyone else are fit.
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The fixture list is going to get tighter in February, more so if we beat Liverpool to move to the fifth round of the FA Cup. And, the possibility of an unexpected Covid-19 outbreak looms perennially. Nevertheless, United should not miss Lingard too much if he does leave on loan.
It could very well be in both sides best interest to let him do just that.
