Ben Johnson has praised the impact of the January loan signing Jesse Lingard. The defender believes that Lingard has brought a lot of quality to West Ham. Lingard has impressed in his three Premier League appearances for the Hammers so far, scoring two goals and assisting one.
"“You can see the quality he brings to the side, just with his cleverness. He knows what he’s going to do before he gets the ball, so to play with him and give him the ball and be confident he’s going to do something with it is really nice.”Johnson on Lingard."
The 28-year-old has proved to be an astute signing by David Moyes. Lingard has slotted into the West Ham side with ease and has proved he still has the qualities that earned him National recognition not too long ago.
Lingard won the FA Cup and Europa League with the Red Devils and ever scored the winning goal against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup. This was before the appointment of Ole Gunnar Solskjær, who used Lingard less and less. The Englishman had not made a League appearance this season before his loan to West Ham.
Jesse Lingard has not only convinced West Ham fans of his quality since his arrival but has also impressed the existing players.
Manchester United’s loss is West Ham and Ben Johnson’s gain. The full-back is positive about having Lingard at the club. Johnson has been impressed to see how quickly Lingard has shown his qualities and expects him to get even better.
"“To have him here, and to see how he’s bounced back from not playing and having people doubt him is fantastic. You know he’s going to keep going and keep improving.”Johnson on Lingard"
Johnson is not the only person to be impressed by Lingard’s impact at the London Stadium. Fans have been blown away and are already demanded that his loan deal is made permanent in the summer. Lingard’s deal was initially faced with a mixed reaction, but his performances has convinced every Hammer that he is the real deal.
Lingard will be in the final year of his contract at Manchester United in the summer. Considering his wages of roughly £75,000 per week and has little to no future at Old Trafford, he could be available for a cut-price deal.
There have even been reports that West Ham are planning on cashing in on Manuel Lanzini for £15 million. This money would be used to sign Lingard, though a deal for the midfielder should not reach that amount.