Manchester United outcast Jesse Lingard has finally secured a move away from Old Trafford in a bid to revive his career. He has now officially signed from West Ham United on loan till the end of this season.
As per reports, West Ham United have agreed to pay Lingard’s £100,000 weekly wages and a £1.5m loan fee. Manchester United have also negotiated a £500,000 bonus linked to West Ham qualifying for Europe as part of the 28-year-old’s loan deal. The deal until the end of the season could cost West Ham up to £4million.
Lingard told West Ham TV: “I’m excited. 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.”
“It’s important that a player and manager have a good relationship. He’s got really good morals, he gets his team working hard and I’ve had a chat with him already and there are no guarantees – it’s down to me to put the work in and put the graft in, to get into the team and play well week-in, week-out.”
“I can’t wait to show [the West Ham fans] what I’ve got in store. I’m excited and I want to help the team push up the table as far as they can.”
West Ham United manager David Moyes is very happy to sign the Manchester United academy player. Moyes has previously worked with Lingard during their time together at Old Trafford.
Moyes said: “I’ve seen him play as a young boy when he was still a wide player on the right, and I’ve seen him play off the left. He’s played for England as a No10, he’s played for England as a No8, and I actually think if we needed him as a False 9, he could do that as well.”
“We’re bringing in that versatility, I’ve wanted to try to get an energetic team at the moment and Jesse has been known for his work-rate and effort, so I think he’ll fit in nicely with what we’ve got.”
“I hope he brings us a little bit of quality too, and a winning mentality from Manchester United.”
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer still has Lingard in his future plans. He wants the England international back in fine form next season after his loan stint with West Ham.
