Nottingham Forest head coach Steve Cooper has been discussing Jesse Lingard ahead of today’s game against Manchester United. The 30-year-old hasn’t featured recently after struggling with injury problems.
Lingard was a stellar recruit made by the club during the summer transfer window. It’s not quite worked out for him, however, with Lingard yet to score or claim an assist in the Premier League.
The versatile forward will hope to play a part in Forest’s run-in. It’s clear that Cooper needs the Reds to start picking up points again with his team now back in the bottom three.
Lingard is unlikely to remain a Forest player next season regardless of the division they will play in. He only signed a one-year deal and he’s not really done enough.
Still, his experience could prove vital in the run-in. He will hope to get back on the pitch sooner rather than later and help Forest in their quest to survive as a Premier League club.
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Cooper told Nottinghamshire Live: “Like everybody, he’s giving everything to be in a position where he wants to contribute. Jesse is as determined as anybody in the group.
“He’s had a bit of a tough time and he’s some games through injuries. Against Manchester United, he’d love to be involved and even more than that contribute in a really, really positive way.”
Cooper has been discussing Lingard and he could play today
The man who served Manchester United with distinction for a decade will be desperate to play today. He will have the club he used to play for in his sights as Forest aim to avoid relegation.
Lingard is running out of time to make an impact at the City Ground. After today there will be just seven games remaining and Forest are fighting a losing battle to stay up.
A lack of form for Lingard hasn’t been through anything work rate related. The Reds forward has always given his all but now he really needs to start contributing in the way of goals and assists.