Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has conducted his pre-match press conference ahead of the clash with Watford.
The briefing was streamed live on the club’s official app at 1.30pm and Solskjaer was asked about Jesse Lingard’s future.
It has been reported that Lingard’s contract talks with the club have fallen apart and he could leave the club as early as January.
Solskjaer said that the situation does not have any bearing on Lingard’s involvement in his plans for the game at Vicarage Road.
“Jesse is training really hard, really well,” said Solskjaer. “He’s ready and available for me, definitely. He’s disappointed he’s not played more, of course.
“His contract situation and talks – I haven’t been in them very closely. For me, Jesse is still a big part of this squad – an important part – and he gives energy and quality to the group every day.
“Every player wants to play as much as possible. Jesse and all my players are working really hard, I can’t fault their attitude and they’re ready when they’re called upon.
“Jesse has done well when he has played for us and he knows with the games that are coming up, he will play a part.”
Solskjaer also offered a more general injury update on the team but only mentioned Paul Pogba and Raphael Varane by name.
He said: “There are a couple of doubts with illnesses and small niggles. Paul is out still for a while, Raphael is out for a while still.
“Apart from that, players will be coming back, call it in the near future. Some this weekend and some during the week.”
Lingard will hope to get an opportunity to shine but it may be too late now to convince him his future lies at Old Trafford.
The Englishman was not involved on international duty and may be fresher than some of his teammates who have come back from trips in recent days.
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