There was a familiar face lining up against us in our comprehensive 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Tuesday evening.

Former Reds midfielder Jesse Lingard, who left the club last summer, was named in Steve Cooper’s starting XI for the visitors, but was forced off just after half-time. The 30-year-old made his way around Old Trafford as he left the field of play, taking in the applause from both sets of fans.

Marcus Rashford, scorer of United’s opener against Forest, said after the match that he is ‘happy’ to see his friend and former team-mate enjoying his football.

Rashford: We could have scored more

“I remember when he was leaving he was a little bit disappointed that he didn’t get to play at Old Trafford to say goodbye to the fans,” Rashford said in his post-match interview with MUTV.

“But today I feel like he’s managed to do that in some sense. I’m happy for him. He’s playing football and enjoying it.”

Rashford also took to social media to share his love for the former Red after the match, tweeting an image of him and Lingard together with the caption: “More than just a friend, good to see you, bro.”

Lingard himself posted on Instagram after the match, thanking the Old Trafford faithful for the reception he received.

He wrote: “Just want to thank you for the warm reception.

“Old Trafford will always have a special place in my heart.”

Source: https://www.manutd.com/