Jesse Lingard has revealed that his loan spell at West Ham felt like ‘hitting the refresh button’ with the 28-year-old now back at Manchester United as the new season approaches.

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Lingard moved to east London on loan in January after becoming a peripheral figure at Old Trafford, and needed a change of environment in order to recapture his best form.

He went on to score nine goals in 16 games to help the Hammers finish sixth in the Premier League and secure Europa League football. Lingard’s sensational form means he’s back in manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s plans ahead of the new season.

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‘It was a great time. It was like hitting the refresh button. Lingard told MUTV on his loan spell with the Hammers.

‘I was always ready to hit the ground running and I was always fit and ready to play.

‘I played every game since I got there and when you play a run of games like that you get a bit of confidence.

‘Of course, the goals came and assists as well. West Ham were brilliant with me: the team, the staff, the club. They helped me get to where I am but it took a lot of hard work from my side as well.’

Lingard’s return to form earned him an England recall ahead of this summer’s Euros, however he was left out of Gareth Southgate’s squad for the tournament.

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It was a disappointing blow for the attacking midfielder, but he proved to those doubting his ability that he still had much to offer.

On being welcomed back into the England squad Lingard said: ‘At the time, it [one goal] was obviously to make the March internationals. Goals, assists, take-ons, shots. To be productive in each game and to keep that consistency.

‘The consistency is definitely a main thing. When you’re playing regular football, you’ve got to keep that consistency and keep scoring, or try and affect the game in a different way if you don’t score or assist.’

Lingard has been playing in United’s pre-season games, suggesting he may play more of an active role under Solskjaer. However, he faces competition from the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Paul Pogba, Juan Mata and Donny van de Beek for a spot in United’s midfield.

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