West Ham: Moyes 'dodged a bullet' over £120k-a-week star at London Stadium

West Ham United ‘dodged a bullet’ when they saw Jesse Lingard join Nottingham Forest instead of heading to the London Stadium during the summer, according to journalist Paul Brown.

Although Lingard spent the second half of the 2020/21 season on loan with the Hammers from Manchester United, he opted against sealing a return to the capital.

A number of clubs were in the hunt to sign Lingard after his Manchester United contract expired during the summer.

Although West Ham were among his suitors, having chalked up 14 goal contributions during his temporary stint, the creative midfielder rejected the move and opted to join Nottingham Forest.

It is understood that Lingard penned a contract worth £120,000-per-week at the City Ground, but he has failed to rediscover the form he showed during his time in east London.

The 29-year-old is still searching for his first goal or assist in his new surroundings and has found himself on the bench on some occasions.

Lingard and Nottingham Forest are currently propping up the Premier League table, having amassed just four points from their opening eight fixtures.

Brown believes West Ham’s failure to persuade Lingard to return to the club was a blessing in disguise.

The journalist feels the 32-cap England international made it clear that he was not fully sold on rejoining David Moyes’ side.

When asked whether the Hammers would be revelling in the fact Lingard is struggling for form, Brown told GIVEMESPORT: “Whether West Ham feel that or not, I’m not sure. But I think they certainly dodged a bullet with Jesse Lingard.

“It was clear through that whole saga that he was never particularly committed to wanting to play for the club.”

Although Lingard only signed a one-year contract with Nottingham