West Ham star Jesse Lingard: I am not even in my prime yet
West Ham forward Jesse Lingard did everything but score in his first match for England in nearly two years.
The 28-year-old was rewarded the BT Player of the Match award for his efforts in the 5-0 thrashing of San Marino. He assisted Dominic Calvert-Lewin for his second goal and overall was a menace to the visitor’s defence.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live on Thursday [22:00 pm], Lingard claimed there is still loads more to come from him. He was disappointed not to take one of his chances but happy to be involved again.
“I enjoy every minute putting on an England shirt – it is an honour and has been a long time coming,” said Lingard.
“I could have scored six or seven goals but we got the game won and that is the important thing. I feel like I am not even in my prime yet – I’ve not played a full season before, only half seasons.
“I wanted to bring the form from West Ham to here. It is brilliant to be back and I’m playing with a smile on my face.”
Taking his chance
It can be argued that Lingard is lucky to be in the England squad. Injuries to Jack Grealish, Harvey Barnes, James Maddison and Jadon Sancho presented an opportunity. But boy, did he take it.
The attacker took nine shots at goal with five hitting the target. It’s the most from an England player since Wayne Rooney had 13 shots against San Marino in October 2014 (BBC).
Lingard was successful with 93% of his passes, one of those being the assist for Calvert-Lewin [WyScout]. He didn’t misplace a single long pass, and won possession seven times in the opposition half.
He was excellent without the ball, too, winning 73% of his duels. He literally did everything but score – Elia Benedettini in the San Marino goal made three world-class saves to deny him.
Admittedly, he was playing against amateur opposition, but you can only face what is in front of you. Southgate decided to give him a chance and he’s taken it. Hopefully, he can get some minutes against Albania and Poland this week.
For someone at the age of 28, Lingard is playing more like an 18-year-old who is fresh on the scene. He performs with such energy and drive at the moment. On this sort of form, Southgate won’t be able to leave him out going forward.
In other West Ham news, Andy Goldstein says Declan Rice will end up at this Premier League club.