Jesse Lingard 'set to feature' in behind-closed-doors friendly for Premier League club after Nottingham Forest exit

Jesse Lingard is set to feature in a behind-closed-doors friendly for West Ham today against Ipswich as the former England international continues to look for a new club, according to reports.

The 30-year-old free agent has been training with the Hammers throughout the summer to maintain his fitness, having left Nottingham Forest in June.

Lingard endured an unsuccessful year at Forest, failing to score in 17 Premier League outings as Steve Cooper’s side narrowly avoided relegation.

And since Lingard has been training with the Hammers, with David Moyes thought to be interested in signing the player.

Of course, Lingard previously had a successful half-season loan at West Ham in 2020/2021, netting nine goals and claiming a further five assists in only 16 games for Moyes’ side.

And according to the Mail Online, the United academy graduate is now lined up to play Championship outfit Ipswich in a friendly at Rush Green on Thursday.

While the game will not be filmed, with no footage to be published by either club, Lingard’s performance will reportedly assist the Hammers on whether they should offer the player a short-term deal.

Premier League clubs have until September 13 to file their 25-man squad and Lingard will be hoping he makes the cut.

Should Lingard return to West Ham in an official capacity, he could line up against former club Forest on November 11.

West Ham may be keen on adding another attacker to their ranks, with the club having lost Gianluca Scamacca and Manuel Lanzini over the summer.

Furthermore, the Hammers will be looking to fight on multiple fronts this season, having qualified for the Europa League on account of winning the UEFA Conference League.

Lingard, who has also been linked to Premier League rivals Wolves, made his name at United where he won the FA Cup and the Europa League and scored 32 goals in 232 appearances.