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Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has told Jesse Lingard to tone down his use of social media in a bid to get the midfielder back to his best.
Lingard did not score or assist a goal in the league in 2019 and has lost his place in the England squad ahead of this summer’s European Championship.
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“Jesse has had his ups and downs as I’ve spoken about before, but against City and Tottenham, they are examples of how important he can be for us,” Solskjaer told a news conference ahead of their Carabao Cup semifinal first leg against Manchester City.
“We want him back scoring and making assists. No one who runs as much as Jess, he’s a great trigger in the pressing and lively, bubbly character.
“I don’t think you see as much social media from Jesse as you used to. He’s got his head down and working hard and getting back to the Jesse I knew.
“It’s part of being a Man United player, how you come across and it’s important that you do give up yourself in a positive way and it’s football-related.
“I do speak to players about how they portray themselves. I don’t have these social media things but it’s a different generation.”
Meanwhile, Solskjaer is facing a crucial 36 hours as he sweats over the fitness of four key players ahead of the clash with City.
Anthony Martial, Lingard and Luke Shaw all missed the the FA Cup tie with Wolves on Saturday while Harry Maguire left Molineux limping heavily after picking up an injury in the first half.
“We’re going to give them as much time as we can, that’s the most correct and honest answer I can give,” Solskjaer said. “Some of them are still not ready.
“If it was a a game today [Monday], I’m not sure they could perform at their best but there is another 36 hours until I give them the team.”