David Moyes has stated that Jesse Lingard isn’t in ‘peak condition’ for West Ham yet, as they welcome Leeds United to the London Stadium tonight.
The Hammers boss stated that he is ‘surprised’ that others are ‘surprised’ at him being nominated, and winning, Player of the Month for February, as he told his press conference.
Lingard has played five games for West Ham since his loan move from Manchester United, and even though he didn’t kick a ball in the league prior to switching Old Trafford for London, his three goals and two assists just prove the natural talent he has at his feet.
Well, the light-footed playmaker will be hoping to continue that tonight as the Hammers face an energetic, free-flowing and all-out attack Leeds side.
Even though West Ham fans have seen Lingard produce some magic during his first month in the Claret & Blue, Moyes thinks he’s ‘still getting there’ in terms of his peak condition.
“I am a little bit surprised that people are surprised at that,” said Moyes. “Or maybe you (Journalist and West Ham fans Ian Abrahams) are surprised with the way the question come over.
“I think Jesse’s really driven to play. When he came in right away, his training, he doesn’t carry any weight, he’s a quick lad and he’s in good physical condition.
“Match practise (lack of it). I totally agree and he’s still getting there. I still think Jesse’s four or five games into it. I think we are still trying to get Jesse probably to peak condition and understanding.
“But it’s great that he’s made such an impact because all the talk and speculation around players, who come and go in January, to get somebody in, who makes a difference, isn’t an easy thing to do.”
If Lingard can produce this magic when his engine is still a little cold, just imagine the damage he will cause when he’s raring hot.
Given Leeds’ gung-ho style, Lingard will enjoy the spaces in-behind and the pockets of spaces Leeds open up for the opposition.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if his trademark celebration is on show in East London tonight because you would back him to get on the scoresheet again.
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