Lingard Expected to Resume Training Next Week, Likely to Rejoin FC Seoul Squad in Two Weeks

Courtesy of FC SEOUL

FC Seoul midfielder Jesse Lingard is poised to make a comeback to the pitch in approximately two weeks following a knee injury that sidelined him for nearly two months.

FC Seoul manager Kim Gi-dong revealed ahead of a K League 1 match against Ulsan HD on Saturday that Lingard has been undergoing partial training due to his injury. Once he transitions to full training next week, it is estimated that he will require about two weeks to regain match fitness.

Lingard, a former Manchester United midfielder, made a surprising move to FC Seoul in February ahead of the 2024 K League 1 season. However, he has only featured in three league matches so far, failing to register a goal or an assist.

The knee injury, sustained during training in March, has sidelined Lingard since FC Seoul's 2-0 victory over Jeju United on March 16. He underwent knee surgery on April 13, missing subsequent matches and spectating FC Seoul games from the stands.

▲ Jesse Lingard / Courtesy of FC SEOULFC Seoul currently faces challenges in the league, having recorded three wins, three draws, and five losses, placing them seventh on the 12-team table. Following a 1-0 loss to defending champions Ulsan HD, the points gap between FC Seoul and league leaders Pohang Steelers widened to 12 points.

Lingard's return could potentially bolster FC Seoul's attacking prowess, known for his pace and precise crosses during his tenure with Manchester United, where he amassed 35 goals and 20 assists in 232 appearances.

Despite the rocky start to the 2024 season, there is optimism for Lingard and FC Seoul to reverse their fortunes and end the club's trophy drought, which has persisted since 2016, the last time they clinched the K League 1 title.

FC Seoul's next fixture is against Incheon United in Incheon on May 11.

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