Jesse Lingard deserves love, not hate from Manchester United fans
Jesse Lingard — few players are as polarizing as the 24-year old. Polarizing and, well, divisive amongst fans. He’s given his life to Manchester United, he loves the club with his entire being, but for some reason, he is only met with hate from supporters.
Lingard was born in Warrington, a town between Liverpool and Manchester. However, his loyalties always lied to the east. The Englishman has been a Manchester United supporter his entire life, and his only dream was to play for his beloved Red Devils.
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He joined the academy at the age of 7, and in 2014 made his first-team debut. He’s United through and through, he’s scored massive goals for the club — he should be a cult-favorite — but he’s not.
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He’s criticized on social media by keyboard warriors for his apparent lack of talent. It’s true, he’s not as talented as Anthony Martial or Marcus Rashford. But what he lacks in talent he makes up for in hard work and love for the club.
Lingard didn’t get to where he is now the easy way. He was loaned out four separate times. He could have moved on, found a club to build at. But he didn’t — this was his dream.
Watch the games. In United’s defeat to Huddersfield, Lingard was bursting across the pitch, trying to will United to something. On Tuesday he scored a brace against Swansea to put us through to the next round in the Carabao Cup.
He leaves his heart on the pitch every time he puts on that United shirt. He has fun at the club and is criticized for it. Me, I love the relationship he has with everyone. It’s a joy to watch.
And let’s not forget his knack for huge goals. Nine of his last 10 strikes for Manchester United have come in Cup competitions. Including the winning goal in the 2016 FA Cup final and a goal in the 2016 Community Shield.
I understand, he’s not immune to mistakes; but United fans need to cut him a break. He understands his role at the club and is thriving in it. He brings energy, passion, and a goal scoring threat off of the bench. He’s a player United need in their lineup.
Lingard’s brace against Swansea has opened up a new role for him as a classic No. 10 under Jose Mourinho. His positive performances have definitely earned him more playing time, and rumors are that he could start against Spurs this weekend.
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So let’s give Lingard a break. He’s a favorite in the dressing room — and deserves to be a fan favorite amongst supporters too.