Jesse Lingard snubbed “many offers” before agreeing to join FC Seoul, with the ex-Manchester United already setting trophy targets in South Korea.
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Released by Forest in 2023Been a free agent ever sinceFinally signed another contractWHAT HAPPENED?
The 31-year-old former England international has officially completed his move to Asia. He had been without a club since being released by Nottingham Forest at the end of the 2022-23 campaign. Various deals were speculated on for Lingard – from Everton to MLS – but he is taking on an entirely new challenge a long way outside of his comfort zone.
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Lingard said at his introductory press conference, with there a desire on his part to make an immediate impression: “Now I'm finally signed, I can concentrate on football. I am looking forward to getting back on the pitch and winning with FC Seoul because I am a winner and a competitor and I want to win a trophy while I am here. I've come here to embrace the culture and learn new things. Personal goals, of course, I have them written down back at home. But it's about the team. I want to play for the team. We want to win every game that we can. I think the team spirit is going to be vitally important this season. As long as we stick together as a team, we can win as many matches as we can. Playing abroad and moving away from the family can always be difficult. I am always up for the challenge. I can always adapt to any culture which I'm looking forward to.”
GettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Lingard is due to link up with FC Seoul at their Japan-based training camp in the next few days. He said when asked why he is in the Far East and when fans can expect to see him on the field: “I had many offers, but FC Seoul showed me great passion. They flew to Manchester to watch me train and they came with the contract on paper. In my mind, I had already made up where I wanted to go. The commitment shown by FC Seoul showed how much they wanted me at the club. It was only right for me to repay that and come to the club. I am not too far off being match fit. I look after my body very well. I am in the gym regularly. I eat the right things. I don't drink. I just want to get ready now and go meet the team in Japan.”
WHAT NEXT FOR LINGARD?
Lingard worked on a personal training programme throughout his time as a free agent, attracting criticism from United legend Paul Scholes at one point, and will be desperate to make a bright start to his spell in the K-League.