Model & die-hard Man Utd fan Ann Mari Olsen begs supporters to lay off Lingard

Stunning model and die-hard Man Utd fan Ann Mari Olson has begged supporters to stop abusing Jesse Lingard - despite admitting his "time is up".

The United-loving blogger has backed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's decision to name him as the captain for the clash against Astana.

Olsen, who writes a Manchester United blog and has the Red Devil tattooed on her back, wants the supporters to get behind their struggling star.

Speaking to SunSport, the 31-year-old said: "Lingard deserves to be captain tonight, he has never complained or showed a bad attitude even though he doesn't play regularly.

"Today is really his opportunity to show and get back into the game. He's fit, but he's been out of it a long time.

"With that said, he gets so much abuse and it's embarrassing to read what people are saying about a guy that's been in the club since he was a kid."

She also posted a photograph of herself wearing a United kit with Lingard's name on the back to her Instagram page.

The caption read: "Lingard will captain Manchester United today against Astana.

"The guy has definitely had his challenges lately, I hate saying this about a Manchester boy, but I feel his time up for the A team.

"With that said, he is still a red and deserves no abuse, today he will be the experienced player out there and I hope he motivates the young lads!

"Seeing the pictures from training they all look happy and sharp so I'm very excited."

Lingard admitted he is suffering from a drop in confidence as he hit back at "nasty" critics earlier this month.

The 24-cap England international has one assist and no goals in 16 appearances for United this season.

Manchester United are top of Group L after winning three of their four group stage games.

Olsen added: "Solskjaer has done everything correct so far in the Europa League, already qualified so we can rest the players and give the reserves a chance.

"I haven't watched a lot of youth games lately so I honestly don't know what to expect from this team, but seeing youngsters getting their debut is always good."