Jesse Lingard has tweeted for the first time since he was kept on the bench for the entirety of his last game at Old Trafford as a Manchester United player.
The 29-year-old has been on the books of the Red Devils for all of his career both at youth and senior level, but was denied the chance to say his goodbyes to the United home faithful during Monday night's comfortable 3-0 Premier League win over Brentford at the Theatre of Dreams.
United had the three points wrapped up just after the hour mark when Cristiano Ronaldo bagged a second for the hosts from the penalty spot and many expected Lingard to come off the bench and enjoy one last run out at the home of his boyhood club.
Instead, interim boss Ralf Rangnick chose to bring on Fred, Edinson Cavani and much-maligned central defender Phil Jones. It was a decision that clearly has not gone down well with Lingard or those close to him, with the player himself sending a subtle message to the club on Twitter.
The England international uploaded a picture of himself at a very young age wearing a United shirt - clearly with the implication that he deserved a better send-off given how long he has been associated with the club. The Manchester Evening News reported that Lingard was left "dismayed and upset" by the fact he failed to get on while Cavani and co. were given more minutes.
Lingard's sentiments echo that of his brother Louie Scott, who called the club classless for their snub of his sibling against the Bees. "20 years of blood sweat and tears, four domestic trophies, three cup final goals, not even a farewell. No wonder it's Conference League next year," he wrote on his private Instagram story.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Did Lingard deserve to get a brief run-out against Brentford to say goodbye? Comment below
He went on to address United's on-pitch struggles and take aim at owners the Glazer family after fans' recent protests. "Attacking players for celebrations when the club's being sold to the super league OK. Class of '92, Busby Babes, you're ran by people who don't even know the offside trap. Classless and the fans need to realise. Goodnight, godbless! Been there since nine years of age and didn't even get a send-off!!! Well done bro your family are proud."
United have endured the most miserable season in their recent history and unless Rangnick can guide them to two wins from their final two games - the Red Devils will end the season with their lowest points tally of the Premier League-era. Lingard's club future beyond this season remains unclear, with a West Ham reunion the most widely touted rumour given the success the winger enjoyed in East London during the tail-end of the 2020/21 campaign.
There are reports that Italian giants Juventus are keen on securing Lingard's signature. The Turin-based titans have made plenty of successful free signings down the years and feel the United fringe-player could be yet another to hit the ground running in Italy.
