Louis Saha has sent a strong message to anyone thinking about taking the famous Manchester United No.7 shirt next.
The iconic shirt number has been vacated at Old Trafford following Alexis Sanchez 's loan move to Inter Milan, and reports over the weekend suggested Jesse Lingard could be in line to take over.
But despite the claims, MEN Sport understands that the England international has not asked for the jersey.
United favourite Saha was baffled by the mere suggestion and insisted that anyone who wants to wear one of the most iconic shirt numbers in the club's history must earn it.
“Hang on a minute,” Saha replied.
“I mean, no disrespect, Jesse’s a player from the academy and he’s been there a long time, he understands. But as I mentioned it’s not just something that you just claim.
“It’s something that people give to you for some reason because you now have attached to your back something that represents the club, you represent the club, the history and all that.
“You can’t take that lightly, it’s not just about you thinking that you have the potential. I don’t think that he done it seriously.
"When you know the history of that number, you know (there is) a responsibility You can’t just think like your career gets you that shirt. Now you have to prove it.
“Definitely those players who thought lightly about it got punished because you have to work really hard. George Best, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham - all those players are immense players for the club.
“You have to realise it’s not just talent, you have to be committed, be a leader, be someone who inspires others.”
