Manchester United have had a difficult season so far after putting in a number of disappointing performances in front of their home supporters at Old Trafford. However, the Red Devils managed to turn the corner against Newcastle United when came back from two goals down to secure a much-needed 3-2 victory on Saturday.
Lingard’s Recent Struggles For Man United
Jesse Lingard was a notable absentee from the United match-day squad last weekend due to his lack of form up top under Jose Mourinho. The English midfielder has made six appearances for the Mancunian outfit this season and had just one assist to show for his efforts across all competitions. Mourinho has often used him on the right side of the United frontline in the hope that he would score goals on a regular basis.
However, Lingard has not been able to take his chances and has found himself falling behind the likes of Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford in the Old Trafford pecking order. It’s high time that he started producing the goods on the pitch or else risk being moved on soon.
The 25-year-old had a fantastic campaign last term when he scored 13 goals and grabbed seven assists in 48 matches for the Red Devils in all competitions. What makes it more frustrating for the loyal Man United fans is that Lingard has already displayed that he can chip in with goals and assists from midfield last season. Hence, it was expected that he would push on and have an even better campaign this term but unfortunately, that has not been the case.
What Does The English Talent Add To Mourinho’s Side?
The former Derby County talent has incredible pace and can dribble with the ball out of tight areas to cause a lot of problems for the opposition defenders. He also has a keen eye for goal and knows how to find the back of the net from both inside and outside the box. However, Lingard lacks the defensive work ethic which Mourinho demands from his players so we can expect him to be a sporadic feature for United this season unless he starts banging in the goals soon.
The Jury Is Still Out
For now, it’s looking increasingly difficult for Lingard to bounce back and turn his fortunes in a Man United shirt. He still has enough in his locker as evidenced by his dazzling displays last season to make an impact under Mourinho’s stewardship after the international break.
