Mueez Ajao
– The Red Devils legend has reiterated his surprise at seeing the England international remain at Old Trafford during the summer transfer window.
– Lingard came off the bench on Sunday to score a late winner against West Ham, where he spent the second half of last season on loan.
– The 28-year-old midfielder has yet to start a game for the Red Devils this season, playing just 63 minutes across four games in all competitions.
– Neville said during his podcast on Sky Sports: ‘I still maintain he should’ve left but he will have his moments.
– ‘I was happy to see how he bounced back after what happened in Europe in midweek.
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– ‘To bounce back and score the winner is a fantastic moment for him. He’s got good character, he’s a very good player and I feel he should be playing 40-45 games a season.
– ‘He won’t get that at United in terms of 90-minute starts but he’s one of those players that I do feel United will benefit from having.
– ‘I just thought for Jesse himself, he should’ve left. United could be a better team with someone like Lingard in it.’
– His goal against West Ham made up for a costly error during their 2-1 Champions League defeat to Young Boys where a poor back pass allowed the Swiss team to score a winner during stoppage time.
– Lingard enjoyed a successful loan spell at the Hammers last season where he was a regular starter and scored nine goals in 16 appearances.
– He seemed content to stay at Old Trafford this season though despite links of a permanent exit before the summer transfer window closed at the end of August.
– Lingard though was praised by manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after his late winner which followed his struggles in Switzerland.
– He said: ‘You have to learn to live with the highs and the lows. He said sorry after Tuesday and everyone said that’s not necessary. He came on and was brilliant.
– ‘It was a great goal. I’m so happy for Jesse. Of course, he had a tough evening on Tuesday, but he’s knuckled down and has worked hard again.
– ‘He’s been the same bright, positive lad, and what a goal. So happy for him. It was a great pass from Nemanja Matic and a good turn by Jesse.’
