Manchester United youngsters Jesse Lingard and Paul Pogba benefitting from experience of Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Jesse Lingard has heaped praise on Manchester United team-mate Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who he says has taken the club's younger players under his wing.

Ibrahimovic arrived at Old Trafford in July, bringing with him a wealth of top-flight experience from Spain, France and Italy over the course of his 17-year career.

The Swede scored five goals in his first five appearances for United, but it appears he is making just as big an impact off the field too.

Jesse Lingard has heaped praise on Zlatan Ibrahimovic ahead of United's game against Zorya

Lingard says Ibrahimovic (right) has been helping the club's younger players, like Paul Pogba

'He's been a leader for the team, especially when the captain's not playing,' Lingard said ahead of Manchester United's Europa League fixture with Zorya Luhansk.

'He's stepped up and he's really led the team. Obviously the young lads look up to him and most of the older ones do as well.'

The 34-year-old has now gone four games without a goal, but could return to the fray on Thursday night.

One other player hoping to be involved is Lingard, who made his second league start against Leicester last weekend.

Ibrahimovic (third left) has stepped up to lead the team in recent weeks, according to Lingard

Manchester United face Zorya Luhansk in their second Europa League fixture on Thursday

As the 23-year-old looks to stamp his mark on English football this season, he will be keen to take on as much advice as possible from players like Ibrahimovic. 

'When you see the things he's done in his career [you can't help but be impressed],' Lingard added.

'He helps the young lads a lot. Especially me, Marcus [Rashford] and Paul Pogba. He's always there for us and always there for the team.'