Jesse Lingard believes he faces six months in the stands as his contract runs down at Manchester United.

The Daily Mail says Lingard believes he is being punished for refusing to sign a new contract at Old Trafford, or agree a permanent transfer that would guarantee United a fee. He also feels let down that he has made just two starts this season after being promised opportunities by former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the summer.

Interim boss Ralf Rangnick spoke to Lingard, who is currently in Dubai, by telephone on Tuesday and gave him the green light to leave, the German telling him he is not part of his plans.

A source close to the player said: "It's pointless Jesse going into work now, knowing he isn't going to feature."

It is understood Lingard was surprised to receive a call from one United executive asking him where his 'head was at', when it is common knowledge that he wants to make a fresh start at another club after a successful loan at West Ham last year.

He now faces being stuck at United for the rest of the season with little prospect of playing.