Former Scotland and West Ham striker Frank McAvennie believes Jesse Lingard would favour an extended stay with the Hammers over a return to Manchester United.
Lingard hadn’t featured in a single minute of Premier League football before his arrival in east London, where he has quickly become an integral facet in David Moyes’ side.
But, having scored nine goals and contributed four assists in just 11 appearances, speculation as to where the 28-year-old’s future may lie has been rife.
However, McAvennie has told Football FanCast that the attacking midfielder will be keen to remain an Iron beyond this season.
I can see him staying at West Ham over Man United because he’s enjoying it. He is absolutely loving his football, I never saw that boy smiling in Manchester once. They’ve got (Mason) Greenwood, (Edison) Cavani, (Marcus) Rashford, who are they going to drop? They’re not going to drop (Bruno) Fernandes. (Paul) Pogba is coming onto it again now, he’s going to be a bit-part player again. Ole is not that good of a manager to keep him happy if he’s not playing.
There have been reports suggesting Old Trafford chief Ole Gunnar Solksjaer could look to reintegrate the in-form ace back into his plans following an impressive loan spell.
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Given the immediate impact Lingard made following his arrival at the London Stadium, it’s safe to assume the rejuvenated 27-cap England man had been chomping at the bit to get up and running for some time.
Whilst the proposition of more playing time in Manchester would be appealing, West Ham have already shown the Warrington-born star unreserved game time and a free attacking role – assurances that won’t be forthcoming back at his parent club.
