Manchester United news: Jesse Lingard reveals taking advice on his game from Old Trafford legend Rio Ferdinand

Manchester United attacker Jesse Lingard has revealed that he is still in touch with Old Trafford legend Rio Ferdinand and admitted the former central defender gives him advice on his game. The 23-year-old made his way into the first team after coming up through the ranks of the club's youth system.

Ferdinand left United as a free agent in the summer of 2014 and joined Queens Park Rangers. He announced his retirement after the end of the last season. The former England centre-back played alongside Lingard during the 2013 pre-season tour under then manager David Moyes.

Lingard has been deployed in the No 10 role by Louis van Gaal and his performance has received praise from the Dutchman. Ferdinand also joined United boss in praising the England international for his impressive display in a new role.

The former United defender took on social media to express his thoughts on Lingard. He tweeted: "Lingard... [is a] proper footballer. Does what most kids these days don't appreciate — intelligent movement off the ball."

When asked by United's official website whether he has seen those comments made by Ferdinand, Lingard said: "I did. I think, especially if you're playing in the no.10 role, you're always going to need that intelligence and that vision to see things around you to find that killer pass."

"But Rio saying that gives you another massive confidence boost. I still speak to Rio now and then. He's always looked out for me and I still ask for advice and stuff like that. I'll see if he watches the games."

"Things like that are always going to spur you on and make you hungry for more," he added. "I've just got to keep my feet on the ground and work hard. It's only my first season, I've not really made it yet. I've got to keep working hard on the pitch."

"I cannot let my foot off the gas. I've got to keep going now until the end of the season and play as many games as I can. We must stay in the FA Cup and get into that top four."