West Ham have completed the signing of Manchester United playmaker Jesse Lingard on loan for the rest of the season.
The experienced 28-year-old dynamo makes the switch to the London Stadium having fallen out of favour at Old Trafford.
Lingard has found himself restricted to just 3 appearances this season – none of which were in the Premier League or the Champions League.
Primarily a playmaker, Lingard is also able to play adeptly on either flank and represents a versatile option in David Moyes’ plans.
Lingard will not be unfamiliar with Moyes and his methods; it was the Scottish tactician that afford Lingard his first-team debut during a 2013 pre-season tour of Australia.
The England international will be hoping to challenge the likes of Manuel Lanzini and Said Benrahma for starting spots, with the latter having recently signed from Brentford permanently.
Indeed, Benrahma’s deal was designed partially to free up a domestic loan slot in the squad registration to accommodate West Ham’s deal for Lingard.
Lingard spoke glowingly of the fresh start afforded to him:
“I’m excited,” Lingard told West Ham’s official club site.
“It’s another new chapter in my life. Nothing is guaranteed but I’ve come here to work hard and help the team and bring my experience. That’s the main aim. I just want to enjoy my football and get back playing again and get my feet back on the pitch.
“There were lots of clubs involved but, for me personally, I felt this was the right move. I’ve obviously had a previous relationship with the manager as he was at Man U and I’ve played under him before, so he knows my qualities and what I can bring to the team. I know a couple of the players as well – I know Dec [Rice] very well from the England side – and I feel I can really settle in here quickly.”
He will take the no. 11 shirt at West Ham.
Read West Ham Verdict
Lingard’s recent record is not convincing reading, having little over 50 combined goals and assists in 210 appearances for United.
His versatility and experience are not to be snubbed, however.
Lingard will at least but hungry to prove his doubters wrong, which could in turn yield the best from himself and the players he is competing with for minutes.
