Much fanfare followed his signing this summer but the England international has struggled for form this season
From a remarkable 23 summer signings, it was Jesse Lingard’s arrival at Nottingham Forest which arguably captured the imagination more than anyone.
He was described as “a player for the big occasion” when Forest excitedly announced his signature, with over six million views on TikTok for the video when the news was confirmed.
Lingard had turned down more lucrative offers, from West Ham and other clubs from around the world, and it seemed an exciting fit for a player approaching his prime.
Thirteen games into a troubled start for the club, Lingard is still waiting for lift-off. The euphoria over his signing is fading like the autumn light.