Lingard: Why The Local Derby Means So Much

Jesse Lingard is eagerly awaiting Thursday's Manchester derby with a full appreciation of what the match means to the United players, staff and supporters.

The Warrington-born midfielder was outstanding in last season's 1-0 away win over City, when Marcus Rashford scored the only goal and the pair of Academy graduates made their maiden appearances at the Etihad Stadium. 

"I played in the derby at their place last season and we got the win in a good, feisty game," said Lingard, in an exclusive pre-match interview with MUTV. 

"It was the first time Marcus and I had played there [in the first team] and it was a great feeling to win with the away fans there behind us.

"This is a massive game. Obviously, as a local lad growing up you know what it means. Coming through the ranks, playing at every level against City, you know what it means to everyone in the team and the staff to get the win on the day.

"It's massive not just for me, but for the whole club, the staff and the supporters. To come away with three points for us and our fans as well is really big for us. The lads will be 100 per cent up for the game."

After signing a new contract recently, the 24-year-old is in great heart and anticipating a special occasion with the Reds aiming to go above City in the table with what would be a victory to savour on the Blues' home turf.

"Obviously coming into the game on the back of three wins is massive for us," added Lingard, who has started the last eight games for Jose Mourinho's men.

"We had a solid and professional performance in the Burnley game the other day. It gives us great confidence going into the derby."