Jesse Lingard choosing to sign for Nottingham Forest in the summer was one of the most intriguing signings of the transfer window.
The ex-Manchester United man declined the advances of West Ham to sign a one-year deal with Forest.
He has played in five of the Reds’ six Premier League matches this season as Steve Cooper’s men try and adapt quickly.
Lingard has been there, done that and worn the t-shirt when it comes to the top-flight and his experience could be crucial.
During last weekend’s 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth, some fans criticised Lingard for his efforts.
He lost possession in the build-up to Philip Billing’s goal that made it 2-1 to Forest and that saw him hammered by the fan base.
Some statistics have come to light, however, that suggest the Forest boo-boys should lay off Lingard.
According to The Other 14 on Twitter, no Forest player has created more chances for the team to score than the 29-year-old.
He’s created eight chances during his five appearances, more than Wilfried Zaha, James Maddison and Pedro Neto.
Lingard will confess himself that he’s not yet hit top stride since he checked in on Trentside.
He has a shorter pre-season than most and he is still striving to reach his very best form in the Garibaldi.
Forest have lots of problems in their team for Cooper to address but it would appear that any criticism of Lingard is somewhat misdirected.
More to come from Lingard in a Forest shirt
Naturally, more will be expected of the former United man in the way of goals and assists.
Any suggestion that he’s not producing the goods at Forest, however, is perhaps somewhat harsh.
Lingard is creating chances but with the head coach preferring not to play with a striker, they’re not being tucked away.
Forest are striving to find a winning formula and that will mean finding a settled team to pick.
Lingard has been paid a pretty hefty wage packet and it seems highly unlikely that he will be dropped any time soon.
As a stellar signing, some supporters will deem that the England international has to be doing more.
It would appear that he’s doing his job relatively well though and the challenge for Cooper is to get his team sticking the chances away.
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