Jesse Lingard among six players released by Nottingham Forest

Jesse Lingard is one of six senior players to be released by Nottingham Forest, the club have confirmed via their official website.

Lingard joined Nottingham Forest last summer, arriving on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract at Manchester United. At the time, many viewed it as an impressive signing for the newly-promoted club.

However, things have not gone as planned for the 30-year-old. In 17 Premier League appearances, he has failed to register a single goal or assist and has started just once since the turn of the year.

His brief spell at the City Ground has now ended, with Forest confirming that he will be released this summer.

Also leaving the Midlands club are Andre Ayew, Cafu, Jack Colback, Jordan Smith, and Lyle Taylor, while loanees Keylor Navas, Dean Henderson and Renan Lodi will return to their parent clubs.

Serge Aurier will remain, having triggered an automatic one-year extension to his deal. Chris Wood’s loan deal from Newcastle United will be made permanent.

Where next for Lingard?

Two years ago, it was difficult to imagine Lingard in this scenario. He had battled back into the England squad after a sensational loan spell at West Ham United.

Several Premier League clubs were queuing up to sign him, only for Man United to keep him at Old Trafford.

But the last two years have been nothing short of a disaster for the midfielder. In that time, he has played just 1,662 minutes in all competitions.

So…now what? Will another top-flight club take a punt on him?

It’s hard to ignore the previous year. Underperformers from newly-promoted sides don’t tend to garner much attention on the market.

On the other hand, his previous performances may have earned him enough credit in the bank.

Opportunities to sign a 32-cap England international on a free transfer don’t pop up every summer. It will be intriguing to see where he ends up.