'I need to start now' - Jesse Lingard reveals plans for shock career change as ex-Man Utd star sets potential date for football retirement

The 32-year-old has admitted that he has long thought of going into acting when he hangs up his boots. The former Manchester United man is even hoping for a cameo role in a show in South Korea, where he currently plies his footballing trade at FC Seoul.

He told the Daily Mail: "I've always thought of acting. I tell any footballer not to just rely on the football. If there's investment there to be made that is safe, and you've got good people around to do it, then do it. If you want to do real estate then do it. Don't be afraid. Social stuff has to be at the right time and I think that's what was sticky for me sometimes. Looking back, I can see that. I don’t know if I would need acting lessons but maybe help with remembering lines and stuff like that. I think I need to start now to be honest. I'm trying to do something over here to get onto like a show already, or something. A cameo appearance."

The report adds that Lingard hopes to play for 'another four years or so'. Ergo, retirement is a way off yet.

Ex-England international Lingard is into the autumn years of his career but is currently enjoying his spell in South Korea. He has won trophies, played for big teams, and represented his country; something not many can say for themselves. But, understandably, he is thinking about what comes next after his football career - something that is a shrewd move as many players struggle in retirement.

In the meantime, Lingard could feature for Seoul against Daegu in the K-League next Saturday. The Daily Mail claims that Lingard could seek a return to the Premier League when his time in South Korea ends, but he's also said to be open to a switch to MLS.