Lingard blasts critics insist they don’t understand

Jesse Lingard has spoken out for the first time since sacking his agents after posting a defiant social media post vowing people would eventually understand his decision.

The former Manchester United forward Lingard dismissed his representatives in his dramatic bid to secure a deal with a new club this year.

He is thought to be frustrated with a number of contract offers failing to develop and has remained a free agent for six months despite past interest from overseas.

Lingard last turned out for Nottingham Forest but departed last summer after his one-year deal expired. His last taste of competitive action came in April.

However, the 31-year-old has now taken to Instagram to share a bullish message.

Sharing an image of himself on the training field, Lingard also added a second picture with a message that read: ‘My focus is different. My time is being invested in growth. I don’t expect people to understand what I’m up to. Eventually, they will.’

The caption for the overall post said: ‘High vibrations and good energy only!’

According to Sky Sports, Lingard terminated his complex long-term agreement with his agents in order to breathe new life into his stuttering career.

Lingard had been represented by members of his own family but tore up the paperwork on Friday night, with his focus now firmly on finding a new club.

It is said he came close to joining Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia in October, only for the deal to fall through. Lingard was able to build up his fitness with the club, however.

He made 20 appearances during his brief spell with Forest, scoring two goals.