Lingard hails'revolution' | The Daily Star
12:00 AM, July 02, 2018 / LAST MODIFIED: 12:40 AM, July 02, 2018

Lingard hails'revolution'

England forward Jesse Lingard says Gareth Southgate has brought about a revolution with the national team and vows they won't change their positive approach for Tuesday's last-16 clash with Colombia.

Lingard, whose long-range goal in England's 6-1 win over Panama has been one of the highlights of the team's performances, says he is enjoying his role as part of a trio operating behind striker and captain Harry Kane.

"It feels like a new revolution. The manager has come in with great ideas, great ideas in the way he wants us to play. The formation suits us perfectly," said the 25-year-old.

Lingard is seen as one of the key players keeping the atmosphere in the squad light and he said that the mood among the players has been perfect.

"As a group of lads, it is a young squad but we still have those experienced players in there and the team spirit is amazing at the moment. We are excited and enjoying the World Cup," he said.

After victories over Tunisia and Panama booked England's place in the group stage, a second-string side lost to an also weakened Belgium in the final group match. Second-place meant England entered what is viewed as the easier half of the draw but Lingard said that was not on the players' minds.

"No. Obviously we are going to have to play the big teams sooner rather than later, and if you want to be the best team in the world, you've got to beat the big teams. So we're not really fussed which side we are on," he said.


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