Ex-player Danny Murphy thinks Jesse Lingard has given Jose Mourinho a selection headache following his fine performance against West Brom on Saturday.
The winger was given an opportunity to prove himself at The Hawthorns, and he utilised the opportunity perfectly to prove his worth. His perfect cross to huge Ibrahimovic gave United the opening goal in the first half.
Even when many of us thought Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s injury would see Juan Mata find his way back into the squad, United boss decide deploying Lingard as he believed he’d be better suited for West Brom’s style of play.
However, Murphy, speaking about Lingard’s display, claims he has made a solid case as he fights for his place in the side.
“He has great pace and willingness to get in behind which is key,” he said. “It’s all about timing when you make these runs.
“And he keeps finding himself in really dangerous positions because he wants to get in there. When he gets the ball to feet he can dribble as well. He’s got good feet, he’s confident and he drives at people.
“He’ll get goals. West Brom couldn’t handle him all afternoon. He was fighting for a place in the team and he’s certainly given Mourinho a headache now.”
Murphy believes Lingard could force his way into Mourinho’s plans on a regular basis after the performance. But we keep wondering if he can get in ahead of Mata and Mkhitaryan, considering the fact that they seem to be on a fine form at the beginning of this season. Well, time shall tell.
