Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper has rejected criticism of Jesse Lingard.
Lingard raised eyebrows when he chose to sign for Forest on a free transfer following his exit from Manchester United, having turned down interest from his former loan club West Ham.
“I’m only concerned about how we see Jesse every day with Nottingham Forest, his game preparation and how he plays in games,” Cooper said.
“I’ve been happy with how he has settled in. It feels like he’s been here longer than a few weeks. We are trying to push him to be at his best because when he’s at his best he will be an important player for us.
“I’m looking at him – he looks happy to be here. You do look and you do see what relationships are being built and who is hanging around with who.
“There are so many people who have a view on us as players and managers, you can tie yourself up in knots if you think about it too much.
“They were positive first impressions. He’s a likeable guy. Very into his football.
“Not every player is, some like to step away from it. He’s interested in tactics, training – he’s been the last one out there – always has a ball at his feet.
“I understand there will be a lot of questions about what he’s done in the past. But I’ve not seen anything untoward.”
