Solskjaer opens up on Lingard returning to Manchester United

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has spoken out about the possibility of Jesse Lingard returning to Manchester United.

Lingard, 28, is still contracted to United, but has flourished since making his loan move to West Ham in January. From the the moment he arrived in the capital, the midfielder has been back to his best and has played an integral part in West Ham’s charge into the Champions League spots.

Jesse Lingard – the wanted man

As such, the Hammers will almost certainly be looking at ways to make the move permanent, though they may not get a free run at Lingard.

In the build-up to United’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Granada, Solskjaer spoke about Lingard and his recent form.

“Jesse has been brilliant since he left,” he said. “We could have kept him, he has always got a part to play. Man United through and through, never caused me a problem. 

“He deserved a chance to play more football, that is why we left him go to West Ham. 

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“We would welcome him back, we hope he will go to the Euros. I hope he has strong finish to the league.

“It was different here. Bruno’s form in the same position. Delighted though for Jesse.”

With the Euros coming up this summer, there’s a good chance Lingard could take his stock even higher than it already is.

The competition for a regular place in England’s starting XI is going to be tough, but it’ll be hard to deny him if he can help guide West Ham back into Europe.

Lingard’s form has been so impressive, Real Madrid have reportedly been keeping tabs on his situation. Should United opt to allow his move to become permanent, they’ll no doubt be asking for more than anyone could have anticipated just a few months back.

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