Amidst numerous reports linking Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard with a permanent move to West Ham United, The Hammer’s goalkeeper Darren Randolph has dropped a cheeky message for his former teammate.
The England international was not given too many opportunities by United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the first half of last season. In January, the Red Devils loaned him to an underperforming West Ham.
The attacking midfielder found himself rejuvenated at the London Stadium, as he scored nine goals in only 16 appearances. For comparison, Lingard found the ned only four times in 40 appearances for Manchester United in the 2019/20 season.
Thanks to Lingard’s spectacular performances week in week out, West Ham qualified for this season’s UEFA Europa League. It also means that the team will play at least six more games than usual, which might make them sign a few players.
For very obvious reasons, Lingard is now their top priority. The West Ham players would also love to have the Englishman back in the club, and goalkeeper Darren Randolph couldn’t resist himself from making an open request on social media.
Solskjaer might have other plans for Lingard
However, Solskjaer has hinted that the future of the player lies at Manchester. After his team trashed bitter rivals Leeds United 5-1 in their opening fixture of 2021/22 Premier League, the Norwegian told journalists:
“Don’t forget Jesse Lingard who has re-invented himself and has come back the man that we know he is with the quality. He is going to play a big part as well.”
On being asked about whether Lingard will feature in United’s next fixture against Southampton, he said,
“Of course there could be more rotation. It’s the best league in the world and we also have to be lucky with injuries, but I am looking forward to working with all these players.”
