Man United News: Maligned Winger Showered With Praises After Game-Winner

KEY POINTS

Solskjaer could not contain his happiness for Jesse Lingard's performance against West Ham United
Both winger and manager were lambasted for their roles in the loss against Young Boys last week
"He's becoming a grown man and is a very good player," says Solskjaer of Lingard

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had nothing but praise for his much maligned winger Jesse Lingard after he came on as a substitute.

“I think today was a good answer! Jesse was quite clear he wants to fight for his place and be part of a Manchester United team that is going places," said Solskjaer in the post-match press conference.

“I can't speak for Jesse now but he's really contributing, he'll play on Wednesday as I'll make a few changes. So pleased he handles the highs and lows really well," he added.

"He's becoming a grown man and is a very good player."

Last week, Lingard made headlines for all the wrong reasons as his errant back pass cost Manchester United the draw in their UEFA Champions League matchup against Young Boys in the group stages.

“He (Lingard) had a tough evening on Tuesday but he’s knuckled down and worked hard again. He’s been the same bright, positive lad and what a goal. A great pass by Nemanja, a good turn by Jesse (Lingard and a great goal,” Solskjaer stated.

The Manchester United winger made a triumphant and heartbreaking return to West Ham United’s London Stadium this weekend as he came on at the 73rd minute, with the Red Devils looking to secure three points.

16 minutes later, it would be the former West Ham United loanee who would score the game-winning goal.

Lingard opted for a silent celebration alongside his teammates as a sign of respect for the club and fans who have helped him find his place again in the English Premier League.

The Red Devils were given a massive scare in stoppage time as VAR-assisted referees deemed Luke Shaw’s handball deflection in the box to be intentional, awarding West Ham United with a penalty.

West Ham United manager David Moyes opted to bring in retiring midfielder Mark Noble to take the spot-kick, but David de Gea made the right call to dive left and save the penalty.

The win puts Manchester United at third place with 13 points as they lag behind Premier League leaders Chelsea and Liverpool on goal difference.

Manchester United will face West Ham United in a rematch on Thursday, September 23,in an English League Cup fixture before welcoming Aston Villa to Old Trafford on Saturday, September 25 for a Premier League match.