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This article is part of Football FanCast's Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba's haircuts to League Two relegation battles...

Despite featuring regularly for Manchester United, Jesse Lingard's career at Old Trafford has been overshadowed by his off-the-pitch antics. The England international has been the subject of controversy in recent months for his social media use, and came under fire from former Red Devils about his decision to launch a clothing line in the build-up to the clash against Liverpool last season.

These unnecessary distractions have all combined to paint a picture of a 26-year-old who has lost direction about what it takes to get to the next level. A sense of perspective and focus. The United academy graduate has shown he absolutely has the talent and quality to be an integral part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side, but continues to let himself down with poor choices.

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Lingard has the tools to be a prominent goal-scoring midfielder, and whilst last season was a disappointment, the year before proved he can add some vital attacking threat. The versatile star notched 13 goals and seven assists in the 2017/18 campaign, and what was just as impressive, was the spread of goals across the different positions he played in.

That ability to play anywhere across the midfield line gives Solskjaer such an intriguing option when it comes to making his team selection. Lingard's energy, tenacity and eye for goal means he doesn't necessarily have to play just behind the striker. Playing from the right or the left allows United to have a player who embraces the intent to press from the front and run the hard yards in covering the opposition full-back.

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Lingard certainly needs to add consistency to his game, but what the Red Devils could really do with is getting his act together away from the turf. If he can appreciate the level of responsibility he has, and embrace the sacrifices needed to progress, he will not only become a better individual for it, but a better footballer too.

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