Jesse Lingard says it was a ‘dream come true’ to score his first Manchester United goal in the Red Devils’ 2-0 win over West Brom on Saturday.
The 22-year-old has been given his chance in the first-team by Louis van Gaal in recent games and repaid his manager’s faith by opening the scoring against the Baggies with a long-range strike into the bottom corner.
Lingard has been at United since he was seven and says it was a great moment to get off the mark for his boyhood club.
“Yeah, it was [a dream come true],” he told the club’s website.
“I have been a bit rash with my finishing recently, but to be composed in that situation was good and I am glad it went in.
“It was a really happy moment for me in my career.
“Afterwards it was just pure happiness, especially with my family being here too. They’re all United fans and are all really proud of me.”
Juan Mata’s late penalty made sure of the three points on Saturday, as United extended their run without conceding a goal to 555 minutes in all competitions.
Lingard’s strike was the first the Red Devils have scored from outside the box since December 2014 and the youngster is now aiming to hold down a regular first-team spot.
“My chance didn’t come for three months, so I had to be patient,” he said.
“I was in the stands for a few games so I had to work hard in training and I’ve got my rewards.
“I’m definitely growing in confidence. The manager has put faith in me to start some really important games so my confidence is obviously sky high.
“Now I need to be consistent with my performances as I know the manager likes that from his players. If I can carry on like this then that will obviously be great for me.”
United remain fourth in the Premier League table heading into the international break but only trail Manchester City by two points following their goalless draw with Aston Villa.
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