Darren Bent comments on Spurs-linked Jesse Lingard’s future

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Darren Bent has told Sky Sports (22/9; 22:28) that reported Tottenham Hotspur target Jesse Lingard has to target regular game-time to get his career back on track – even if that means having to leave Manchester United.

Lingard’s future at Old Trafford looks to be uncertain. The Sun reported this week that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could be tempted to offload the £25 million-rated 27-year-old before the window closes.

Meanwhile, it was suggested by The Times that Spurs are keen on the Englishman. And it was reported that Lingard would be open to considering a reunion with Jose Mourinho.

The attacking midfielder made his first appearance of the campaign on Tuesday. He arguably played well as United booked their place in the next round of the Carabao Cup with a 3-0 win.

And after watching his display, Bent insisted that Lingard has to be prepared to move – and suggested that a move to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium could provide him with the perfect platform to prove a point.

“For me, I would love to see someone like Jesse go somewhere, play week-in, week-out,” he told Sky Sports.

“If it’s not going to be with United – I know it’ll be tough for him to leave – go to another club. If it is Spurs, go and get regular game-time, and go and show everyone that you are still a good player and that you have still got a big future with England.

“If Jesse’s playing really, really well and is at the top of his game, there’s no reason why he can’t get back into the England squad.”

TBR View: Lingard has the quality to prove doubters wrong, but faces crucial decision

It must be noted that there has been conflicting reports concerning whether Spurs want Lingard. Football London has recently suggested that he is not on their radar.

But with Lingard reportedly keen on joining Tottenham, perhaps a move cannot be ruled out just yet.

It also should not be forgotten that he is a player who enjoyed arguably the best season of his career while working under Mourinho.

He scored 13 goals in all competitions during the 2017/18 campaign. Lingard also provided six assists that season.

And interestingly, given Bent’s comments, it is also the season in which Lingard made the most appearances for his side.

Of course, it may seem obvious to many that his numbers would look best in the year he played most. But perhaps, it can also act as a reminder of his quality when he is given a key role.