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Manchester United fans have been impressed by Jesse Lingard’s commitment to fitness after the forward showed off his ripped physique in a post on social media.
Lingard, 29, has been a peripheral figure at United this season and is yet to start a Premier League match in the 2021-22 campaign.
He was close to leaving Old Trafford in the January window but United were unable to agree terms with Newcastle over a potential loan deal for the England international, who is out of contract at the end of the season.
Lingard’s lack of first-team football has not stopped him working hard off the pitch.
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He took to Instagram on Friday to post a series of images of himself in the gym, alongside the caption: “Feel good Friday”.
United fans were stunned by Lingard’s bulked up physique, with one user commenting: “99 Physicality”.
Another added: “Lingard should start the next game he looks sharp and focused.”
A third user speculated that Lingard’s transformation could be down to the influence of fitness mad Cristiano Ronaldo, commenting: “CR7 effect?”
Earlier this season, Ronaldo launched a damning attack on his team-mates - urging them to show more commitment and pride in their performances.
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It came after reports Ronaldo had complained that he was one of the only United players to go to the gym to do extra work before and after training at Carrington.
“I say we have a long way to improve because, for me, the most important thing is the mentality. To look at yourself and say, ‘I can do better’,” said Ronaldo.
“For you to be professional, help the team, the right mentality, self-taught and positive. All these details depend on you, not the coaches, the fans or the press.
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“If you are proud of yourself and you have dignity, you have to do it much more.”
Lingard will be hoping to work his way into interim head coach Ralf Rangnick’s plans before the end of the season.
United next face rivals Leeds in the Premier League on Sunday, before travelling to face Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie on Wednesday.
Topics: Jesse Lingard, Manchester United, Football, Premier League