Lingard: I chose West Ham over Spanish, French offers

West Ham loanee Jesse Lingard admits he could have left Manchester United for abroad in January.

In just seven appearances for his new club, Lingard has scored five goals, assisted three more and won two penalties, helping to maintain the Hammers’ unexpected push for Champions League football.

He revealed he had offers to join clubs in France and Spain during the transfer window but was advised to remain in the Premier League by England boss Gareth Southgate.

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“It was about going out to Europe or staying in the Premier League and he said, ‘If I was you I would stay in the Premier League’,” Lingard told the London Evening Standard.

“So after that I had to find a Premier League side and obviously West Ham fit perfectly.

“I didn’t speak to him after the loan, it was just about me working hard for West Ham and trying to get the call-up.”