Mourinho hails importance of Lingard

Jose Mourinho has congratulated Jesse Lingard on his new contact, describing him as a "very important player" for Manchester United.

Lingard, who has come through the club's academy since the age of seven, signed a new deal through to 2021 and Mourinho believes the 24-year-old has the ability and application to keep improving.

"He's a good player already and because of his age and his happiness in the work he has conditions to be even better," Mourinho told manutd.com. "English and made in the Academy; these players are very important for the club."

Lingard will be hoping to add to his 43 Premier League appearances when Man Utd visit Sunderland on Sunday.

See: Manager makes his points