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Gary Neville has leapt to the defence of Manchester United star Jesse Lingard following criticism of his new contract.

Lingard, who grew up as a United fan and has been at the club since the age of seven, has signed a new four-year deal at Old Trafford .

But with reports suggesting his pay is around £100,000 a week, some fans have reacted angrily to the news, suggesting he does not deserve those sort of rewards.

The academy graduate continues to divide opinion, and has been criticised for his use of social media and exuberant goal celebrations alongside team-mate Paul Pogba.

But Neville has called for supporters to get behind Lingard, who scored the winner in last season's FA Cup Final and netted again in the EFL Cup final in February.

Neville wrote on Twitter: "They aren't United fans really. They can't be if they are against a kid that's been at the club since he was 7.

"Homegrown lad being selected for the first team. Get behind him!"

Lingard paid tribute to the United fans once the new deal was announced.

He told the official club website : "Manchester United has always been a big part of my life. I have been with the club since the age of seven and I feel great pride every time I pull the shirt on.

"To have scored in two cup finals for my boyhood club were immensely proud moments for me and my family.

"As a team, we have already won a major trophy this season and I look forward to helping us win many more under this great manager. I would like to say a special thank you to the fans for the great support they have always given me and the team.”

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