Performance concerns arise as FC Seoul manager criticizes Jesse Lingard’s lackluster debut
FC Seoul’s manager, Kim Gi-dong, didn’t mince words when criticizing new signing Jesse Lingard. The former Premier League player’s lackluster performance in a K League game against Jeju United prompted Kim to emphasize that “fame doesn’t win football games.” Lingard’s brief appearance did not impress Kim, who highlighted the importance of hard work on the pitch, regardless of a player’s reputation.
Having joined FC Seoul just last month on a two-year deal with an option for a third year, Lingard’s transition to the South Korean club has not been seamless. In the match against Jeju United, Lingard entered in the 58th minute but failed to leave a mark on the game, culminating in a late yellow card. Kim’s dissatisfaction with Lingard’s performance was palpable, with the manager indicating that the player needed to step up his game significantly.
Despite Lingard’s extensive experience at Manchester United, where he amassed 232 appearances and contributed 35 goals and 21 assists, his performances for FC Seoul have fallen short of expectations. Kim’s remarks after the match expressed a desire to see Lingard replicate his past glory on the pitch, implying that the player’s current efforts were insufficient.
Acknowledging that time is needed for Lingard to adapt fully, Kim remained hopeful that the player would improve with guidance and support. Lingard’s arrival at FC Seoul, touted as a significant signing, has yet to yield the desired impact on the team’s performance, leaving Kim with concerns about the player’s ability to deliver consistently at the expected level.
As Lingard navigates the challenges of adjusting to a new footballing environment, the pressure to deliver results will undoubtedly intensify. With Kim’s pointed critique serving as a wake-up call, Lingard will need to demonstrate his worth on the pitch and prove that he can meet the demands set by his manager. Time will tell whether Lingard can rise to the occasion and showcase the skills that made him a standout player in the Premier League.
