West Ham are still hopeful of completing a move for former loanee Jesse Lingard who claimed nine goals and five assists in 16 games for West Ham last season.
The England International, Jesse Lingard revived his career with a stunning six-month loan spell at West Ham last season. In the club, he claimed nine goals and five assists in 16 games to guide the London club to a sixth-place finish.
After the season, Lingard returned to parent club, Manchester United where he was involved throughout in the pre-season scoring in a 4-2 defeat to QPR. However, the special lad was left out of the squad for their 5-1 opening day win over Leeds United.
Pearce, who watched his Hammers side come from behind twice to beat Newcastle 4-2 away in their opening Premier League fixture on Sunday, has admitted Lingard is still very much in their thoughts, though insisting the ball is in United’s court.
“We would like him to come and join us. That has been an open secret. He was wonderful last year.” Said Pearce.
“The ball is in Manchester United’s court. He is contracted to them. We would like him with us, there is no doubt about that. He’s a special lad and was very good around the players. His ability shone out last year and gave us a great option in our squad.”
“You never know, but at this moment in time it looks like he is fighting for a place in the United line-up”.
Though Lingard was left out of the squad against Leeds, Solskjaer – who said the 28-year-old was ‘in the plans at the moment’ back in July – revealed that is still the case after the victory.
The Norwegian heaped praise on midfield duo Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes, who scored a stunning hat-trick, but made sure to outline that others, notably Lingard, will still get their opportunities.
“Don’t forget Jesse Lingard who has re-invented himself and has come back the man that we know he is with the quality. He is going to play a big part as well.” Solskjaer said.