United’s performance against Sheffield was formidable:
The Red Devils are struggling to get a grip on any game and it was quite apparent from their late win against Sheffield United in the FA Cup third round. While the victory should have been a cup of tea, Wayne Rooney managed to seal it only after the 93rd penalty which sheds light on the fact that the LVG’s side, despite sporting a formidable lineup couldn’t manage to get the better of the low-rated League one team.
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United managed to record umpteen attacking advancements which ended up in nothing and a decent number of wasted opportunities, which clearly shows that the team’s conversion rate is pretty poor – Yes! LVG needs to work on finishing.
The first team lineup against Sheffield featured Fellaini, Darmian and Borthwick-Jackson who replaced Ashley Young, Phil Jones and Schneiderlin, which gives us a hint suggesting that Van Gaal is trying his hands at playing those who have spent a considerable amount of time watching the game from the sidelines in the past.
Lingard’s position during United fixtures has predominantly been on the bench, rather than on the field and this has left the young man yearning for a key role in the United lineup.
Lingard has his say:
When asked about his opinion about United’s triumph against Sheffield and the chance given to him, Lingard has told MUTV that
“I felt good. To get game-time is always important for me and I feel that myself and Memphis had an impact on the game, which is good and that has stood us in a good stead for the Newcastle fixture”.
Lingard, however, has to develop his goal-scoring knack in order to advance high up the order. He has managed just two goals in his 14 appearances which considering his talent, is a bit below-par.
“We’ve got quite a few wingers in the team and it’s always good to switch it up now and then. With a variety of players in the squad, we can do that and the manager has options for every game”.
Lingard is undoubtedly Manchester United’s future first team prospect and arguably one of the best young talents in the Red Devil’s squad. The 23-year-old was a 60th-minute substitute along with his fellow player Memphis and his performance, though not amazing was at the least, applaudable.
With just 14 appearances until now in this season, the youngster is keen to prove his worth in the near future. Lingard made his first appearance since mid-December in the last fixture against Newcastle United after recovering from a hamstring injury..
St. James Park bestowed him with the opportunity he was craving for:
All United fans would have been in a state of exasperation after an unfortunate draw against the home team, despite securing two goals within 38 minutes. United’s skipper scored two goals and recorded an assist in the game, which was stunning considering the slump he was in.
However, coming to the point, Lingard’s play was organized and professional against Newcastle United. He stayed on the pitch for 64 minutes and managed to score a goal in the 38th minute which put United two goals ahead.
I guess the manager paid heed to the winger’s bidding after the FA Cup fixture and put his name on the first team sheet. The longevity of this move, however, is quite dubious considering the team’s bench strength.
While Martial and Rooney’s position in the team is least likely to be meddled with, Lingard has to prove his worth over Ashley Young and Memphis to keep his spot in the squad.
What does future hold for Jesse Lingard?
