JESSE LINGARD has returned to the training pitch just 12 days after undergoing surgery on his knee.
The former Manchester United star underwent a procedure on his meniscus earlier this month.
Despite taking to Instagram to share a post-surgery photo of himself in a hospital bed just 11 days ago, Lingard was already back in training with a ball at his feet this week.
The 31-year-old, who made a shock move to FC Seoul in February, shared photos of his session on the grass to his social media alongside the caption: “Progressing quickly, 12 days post operation.”
While he also posted a video doing some keepy-uppies with the caption “Missed u baby”.
Fans headed to the comments section to offer the 32-time England international some words of encouragement upon his return.
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One wrote: “Keep going mate.”
While another added: “Keep your head up and stay focused Jlingz.”
And a third commented: “Minor setback, major comeback”.
The incredible return comes after manager Kim Gi-dong has confirmed that he will be out of action for a month as he completes his recovery.
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Life in Asia has got off to a slow start for Lingard who prior to his injury had only managed 105 minutes of football for the Korean club.
He’s yet to register a single goal contribution in that time either and has come under criticism for his efforts from Kim.
Speaking after the club’s draw with Jeju United, the gaffer said: “Even though he came on as a substitute, he didn’t work hard and avoided tussle.”
He then made it clear that he wouldn’t be giving Lingard any preferential treatment just because of his reputation.
He added: “The name value has no meaning on the pitch. I will tell him this exactly.”
Fans certainly got excited for his arrival thanks to his reputation as a K-League record attendance of 51,670 fans packed into the Seoul World Cup Stadium to watch his home debut.
The former West Ham loanee opted to move to South Korea after turning down 26 other offers and is currently on £17,500 per week – a far cry from the £100,000 a week he made at Old Trafford.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
