In an interview he explained: "I was at a local club Penketh United and Mike Glennie, a Manchester United scout, came to watch me.
"He spoke to my granddad and offered me trials but there was also interest from Liverpool and I had to pick
Obviously my heart was with United at the time."
Lingard is currently enjoying his breakthrough season at Manchester United and so far has made seven appearances, chipping in with a goal and assists and has been called up for the England senior national team.
Since joined United in 2000, at the age of ten, Lingard has climbed through the ranks of the United youth system and changed position from an attacking midfielder to winger.
He has also had loan moves to Leicester City, Birmingham City, Brighton and Hove Albion and most recently Derby County as well as playing for England at under 17 level and under 21 level.
Source: DSG