Solskjaer wanted to keep Lingard at United, says Moyes

The 28-year-old was linked with a return to the Hammers in the summer after a successful loan move last season

LONDON:

England midfielder Jesse Lingard did not return to West Ham United after his loan spell because Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had no intention of selling him, manager David Moyes said.

Lingard flourished last season on loan at West Ham, scoring nine goals in 16 appearances. The 28-year-old was linked with a return to the East London club this season on a permanent deal.

"Ole made it quite clear to me early in the transfer window that he wanted to keep him (Lingard)," Moyes said on Friday. "So aI knew pretty early that he would be staying at Manchester United.

"I was hearing all the stuff but I had a private conversation with Ole who made it clear he was staying."

Solskjaer has said he hopes Lingard, who has one year left on his United contract, will stay at Old Trafford.

West Ham, who are eighth on the Premier League table, host leaders United on Sunday

Guardiola says defender Dias added to City's leadership group

Manchester City centre back Ruben Dias will be one of five players sharing the captain's armband this season, manager Pep Guardiola said.

Dias joined City from Benfica last year and was a mainstay of Guardiola's defence as he helped the club win the Premier League title.

The Portugal defender, named Premier League Player of the Season as well as England's Footballer of the Year in a stellar debut campaign, led the team in Wednesday's 6-3 thrashing of RB Leipzig in the Champions League.

"Everyone has to be their own leader," Guardiola told the club website on Friday. "Every season we make the selection of captains. The players and backroom staff make the decision.

"Eleven months and one week we are all here together and they know who are the best to represent the team. We all choose our five captains."

Dias, 24, said he was proud to be named one of the captains and ready for the responsibility.

"It's definitely a big responsibility and I will do my best to be there for everyone," he said.