Jesse Lingard’s loan spell at West Ham has come to an end with the 28-year-old describing his time at the club as a ‘career highlight’. Lingard sent a message of thanks to everyone involved at West Ham and singled out the manager for having “the belief in bringing me here.” The England international thanked his Hammers teammates, the coaches, and the fans and added that “whatever the future holds” West Ham will always be special to him after the past five months in London.
Jose Lingard said on Instagram.”What a way to end the season. Reaching our goal with this incredible group of lads feels amazing! We pushed hard and never gave up! I feel so lucky to have been able to come into such a welcoming environment, everyone connected with the club has shown me just how special this club is. So thank you to the gaffer who had the belief in bringing me here. Thank you to all the staff that made it so easy for me to settle and embed into the club so quickly. Thank you to the coaches who helped me find my true self back on the pitch. Thank you to the fans who supported me from the second I arrived, It was amazing being able to play in front of you on the last day! And thank you to a special group of lads, as well as making some new lifelong friends training and playing with you all has been one of the highlights of my career! Whatever the future holds West Ham United will hold a special place in my heart!”
West Ham vice-captain and Lingard’s England colleague Declan Rice replied to his teammate on Instagram.
Declan Rice said “This is emotional brother! [An] absolute pleasure to share the pitch and changing room with you again! Your [sic] going to be missed massively mate.”
The England international has left the door open for a return to the London Stadium next season after helping the Hammers into the Europa League. Lingard scored nine goals and contributed five assists in 16 Premier League appearances and forced his way back into England contention for the upcoming Europan Championships. Hammers boss David Moyes has made it clear he would like the attacking-midfielder to return to the club, but admitted the decision is out of his hands with Manchester United to decide what lies next for Lingard.
