Jesse Lingard saga takes new twist as Manchester United academy graduate reacts to FC Seoul decision

It is safe to say a fair few eyebrows were raised when Jesse Lingard swapped the Premier League for the K League earlier this year.

The former Manchester United star had been without a club following his release from Nottingham Forest a year ago and after receiving many offers he decided he wanted to try a new football experience in South Korea.

A lot of fanfare followed once the transfer was confirmed, though things didn't initially go according to plan for the former England international and his struggles have been well documented in recent months.

Lingard was heavily criticised by manager Kim Di-Gong for a lack of fitness, with the Seoul manager threatening to drop him unless he showed a significant improvement on his work rate. Things then took another twist when the 31-year-old was sidelined by a knee injury which kept him out of action for a few weeks before he finally returned a month ago.

Since then, he has turned a corner though. Lingard's level of performance has improved and although he is yet to score a goal or register an assist for his new club, he was given the captain's armband in their recent 2-2 draw with league leaders Ulsan HD FC.

Taking to social media after the match, he wrote: "Proud moment for me to captain @fcseoul, it’s amazing to work with this group day in day out. “We have to keep this consistency for the rest of the season showing the same desire and mentality we showed in this game. Our fans quality as usual thank you for the support.”

Lingard has now played eight times Seoul, featuring for 90 minutes in three of the last four of them. His side side ninth in the 12-team league and will be looking for the rejuvenated former United ace to inspire them to a positive campaign.