The launch earlier this week of his very own clothing range will surely have been a proud moment for the Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard, who follows in the footsteps of his England international teammate Dele Alli.
But his off-field business endeavour has received criticism by two famed former holders of Manchester United shirts, Gary Neville and Roy Keane.
Neville sees the timing of the release as the issue.
“Before Liverpool away - the biggest match of the season - don’t launch a clothes brand.”
But adds the caveat that: “I’m not having a go at him for his character, players should have other careers, they should do other things.”
Keane, true to form, is having a go at him for his character.
“That wouldn’t be tolerated in a good dressing room,” he says.
“People say you should have other stuff outside of football, I don’t think you should. I think football should be your number one priority.
“Don’t hide behind your cars or your tattoos or you girlfriends or your agents. Play the game and you can do all that stuff when you retire.”
His old teammate Neville can be heard chuckling along in the background as Keane says this, presumably recalling the controversy caused when the Cork man launched one of his many autobiographies ahead of a crucial pair of games for the Republic of Ireland side he was assistant coaching.
What’s good for the goose isn’t always good for the gander, then, in the mind of Roy Keane.
Lingard’s actions might well received some more attention should his side put in a poor display at Anfield later this afternoon.
@GNev2 and Roy Keane question @JesseLingard's decision to launch a clothing line ahead of this week's clash with @LFC, saying football should be his only focus. ⚽
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