Jesse Lingard taking up vegan diet for new season

Jesse Lingard is transitioning to a vegan diet ahead of the new season.

The Manchester United midfielder is looking to win back his place at Old Trafford next season and revealed that he is slowly changing to a plant-based diet to prepare for the Premier League’s return in August.

Lingard, who enjoyed an impressive loan spell at West Ham last season, said: “At first, I tried to go fully vegan straight away, but after five days, I found I was starving during a game. Plant-based foods are always going to be a good fuel component and put you into a really good mode going into a game, so I’m making sure to have as much as possible.”

The England star also gave an insight into his match day diet and says that he prefers a plant-based diet rather than using the energy gels that are provided for players.

Speaking on behalf of American Pistachio Growers, Lingard said: “Ahead of a game I tend to have scrambled eggs and chicken and broccoli pasta. They give us energy gels to take but I rarely do. I take pistachios to games and snack on them at half time to refuel me and give me the good protein I need on a match day.”

Lingard also stressed the importance of eating the right food to recover between matches amid the hectic fixture list during the season.

He said: “Food is very key with recovery. Especially after a game, it is important to get the right food. You have to regain to recover faster after for the next game. After a game I get as much food down me as possible, go to the gym and then have an ice bath.”