Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has indicated that he will use Jesse Lingard on a more regular basis over the coming weeks.
The 22-year-old made only his first appearance of the season as a half-time substitute during the 3-0 win over Everton at the weekend.
However, despite having used the youngster sparingly so far this term, Van Gaal hinted ahead of tonight's Champions League clash against CSKA Moscow that Lingard has trained his way into contention for a spot in the team.
"Lingard's competitor is Juan Mata and his competitor is also, for example, Ander Herrera or Wayne Rooney or, when he is played on the left, because he can also play on the left, his competitor was Memphis [Depay]. So it's not easy to come in," he told MUTV.
"He trained from the beginning, also in the United States of America, and maybe you remember his goal [against Barcelona]? He played very good in that match and trained very well. He has to wait for his moment and maybe his moment has arrived now."
Lingard, who joined the Red Devils as a trainee in 2009, has had two senior outings for the club.
Liam Apicella
