Jesse Lingard Shared A Great Moment With Elia Benedettini After San Marino Game

Jesse Lingard failed to score on his England return against San Marino, and he was able to have a laugh about it with goalkeeper Elia Benedettini in a lovely moment.

It was a good start for Gareth Southgate's side in their World Cup qualifying for next winter's tournament, as they ran out 5-0 winners against San Marino.

The England manager was able to rest many of his first team players, such as Harry Kane, whilst dominating the game and several fringe players impressing, especially youngster Jude Bellingham.

Probably the only criticism of England was a lack of composure in front of goal, as they scored just five goals from 32 shots.

That was in part because of Benedettini, with the visitors keeper saving most of the Three Lions' 15 shots on target, especially denying Lingard who had seven efforts.

After the match the Cesena goalie shared a moment with the on loan West Ham United player, in a lovely moment between the pair.

Lingard was a main part of Southgate's squad in his first two years in charge of the national team and played an important role at the 2018 World Cup.

His form since then has completely fallen away at Manchester United and before this week hadn't been picked for the national side for over 18 months.

The 28-year-old's loan to West Ham since January has seen a huge upturn in fortunes, scoring five and assisting two goals in seven appearances since moving to east London.

Lingard takes one of his seven shots during the game. Image: PA Images

Lingard's return to form for the Hammers has led to reports that he could be brought back into the fold at Old Trafford at the end of the season.

There is even talk of a potential new contract for the player for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team, despite West Ham wanting to make the deal permanent.

After the match, Southgate singled out Lingard, Kalvin Phillips and Mason Mount for praise, saying, "I thought midfield players moved the ball really well, Kalvin Phillips, I was really pleased for him, he's used the ball well but his athleticism around the pitch was good.

"Mason in the first half, excellent, I thought set the tone. Good to see Jesse looking like he's enjoying his football again. So I thought there were a lot of good things."

Topics: Football, Manchester United, Euro 2020, England, West Ham United, World Cup, Jesse Lingard, San Marino

Ryan Sidle

Ryan is a writer for SPORTbible. He covers all sport from football, formula one, cricket, rugby, tennis, athletics, mma and wrestling. He obviously hates YOUR football team and has no interest in synchronised swimming.

@Sidler28