West Ham’s Jesse Lingard scored twice as the Hammer’s beat Aston Villa 3-1. Lingard is on loan from Manchester United after failing to break into the first team.
With two goals in his first Premier League outing this season, the 28-year old has shown he can still compete at the top level.
Jesse Lingard Struggled for Game Time at Manchester United
Manchester United Academy Graduate Shines on Loan
Manchester United academy graduate, Lingard is now 28-years-old. Although, not United’s best player. Lingard has lasted longer than several managers and former players.
However, over the last year, Lingard has drifted under the radar. Now approaching his prime years, the midfielder’s status as an academy graduate may well be holding him back.
While Lingard’s worth continues to decrease with age. Manchester United’s access to top European talent means his midfield competition comes at a younger age and higher value.
Bruno Fernandes is a sure starter. Leaving only a couple of places left in midfield.
The likes of Fred and Donny van de Beek cost Manchester United a combined worth just short of £90 million. United’s most expensive signing. Paul Pogba came back to the club at the same value as the midfield pair. There is a certain expectation to see results from United’s high-profile signings. Performances not living up to the price tag is something United have battled constantly since Pogba returned to the club.
Therefore, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is under pressure to get the most out of United’s higher-priced players. Alongside their Premier League push. United are still in the Europa League. United’s large squad means the Europa League will offer Solskjaer the chance to develop the club’s younger players for the future.
Can West Ham’s Jesse Lingard Encourage European football?
West Ham is fifth in the Premier League. Two points off Liverpool and the Champions League places.
Although Everton, Tottenham, and Chelsea are below West Ham in the Premier League, each will have the aim of playing European football. West Ham has shown better form in recent games compared to most of the teams around them.
Therefore, based on current form. West Ham will be favourites for Europa League Spot. David Moyes will see this as a realistic target as he now has the right squad of players to complete the job.
Additionally, West Ham has strengthened in recent transfer windows. With Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal proving vital signings for the Hammers.
Thomas Soucek has scored vital goals from midfield and Jesse Lingard will hope to build on his West Ham debut and be a threat in front of goal.
The England international has proven to be reliable in big games. In 2016, Lingard came off the bench to score the winner against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup Final. The following season, Lingard netted the opening goal against Premier League champions Leicester City in the Community Shield. Once again Lingard contributed with a goal in United’s 3–2 win over Southampton in the 2017 League Cup Final.
While Lingard made several moments for Manchester United fans. Rather than being a squad player for the Red Devils, playing regularly for West Ham will allow the midfielder to be more influential in the Premier League.
Although, Lingard has lacked game time in recent seasons. The midfielder won’t shy away from the opportunity to prove his critics wrong. Lingard’s experience will no doubt be counted on if West Ham is to progress further and qualify for European football.
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