Speaking to the press, via football.london, West Ham United manager David Moyes has reacted to Jesse Lingard's absence for the Manchester United clash, with the Scotsman describing it as a 'big loss' as the January signing is ineligible to play against his parent club.

Lingard has starred for the Hammers since signing on loan at the London Stadium, scoring four goals and providing one assist in just six Premier League starts (WhoScored), but he will not feature against the Red Devils this evening as the 28-year-old is ineligible for the clash.

Moyes reacts to Lingard absence

Moyes has described it as a 'big loss' for West Ham as they aim to mount a late assault for a top four finish, coming as the Irons boss also explained there are some 'slight doubts' behind the scenes for a couple of players (West Ham United official website).

"A big loss because he has had a big impact on the team and how we have played," said Moyes to reporters (via football.london).

"He has been a positive signing for us since coming in in January so it is a loss to us but we have got other people.

"What we wanted was competition for places, sort of around the number 11 and number ten roles, we wanted good competition and Jesse has given us that but we have other people who can do that so hopefully we can go there and who them what we can do."

Transfer Tavern take

Lingard's fine start to his Hammers stint has been emphasised recently by former Premier League striker Ian Wright, who told Premier League Productions (via HITC) how 'devastating' he can be.

Time will tell who Moyes will have at this disposal for the Old Trafford clash, but who he chooses to replace Lingard in the team will be interesting to see.

In other news: West Ham are eyeing this 19-goal 'phenomenon', find out more here.