Jesse Lingard: 'Andros Townsend is an inspiration to Under-21s'

Manchester United's Jesse Lingard has claimed that Andros Townsend has provided his fellow youngsters with "confidence" by his performance on debut for England.

Spurs winger Townsend capped off his display during Friday's 4-1 win over Montenegro with a goal, which has earned him widespread praise.

Having been at Wembley to watch the 22-year-old's exploits, Lingard, who is currently on loan with Birmingham City in the Championship, has conceded that the entire Under-21 squad can look to Townsend for inspiration.

"It was massive for us to see Andros do so well. It gives us confidence that we can get there as well," Lingard told The People.

"To see him do as well as that is great and makes us want to do more and get into the senior squad. It is good to know the opportunities are there - Roy Hodgson likes young players."

Lingard, 20, is part of the England Under-21 squad that will face their Lithuanian counterparts at Portman Road on Tuesday night.