Jesse Lingard Testifies as Grandfather Faces Sexual Assault Charges

Jesse Lingard, former Manchester United footballer, testified at Liverpool Crown Court as a defense witness in the trial of his grandfather, Kenneth Lingard, who is accused of historic sexual assaults against a woman alleging abuse from age five. Jesse Lingard stated he was unaware of the allegations prior to being contacted by the complainant after a 2022 documentary aired, in which he spoke about his grandfather's positive influence. Lingard asserted in court that, had he known about the accusations, he would have immediately cut ties with his grandfather and ensured his children would not be around him. He recounted that the woman contacted him with accusations after the documentary and said she intended to call the police. Lingard emphasized he would never lie on behalf of his grandfather and reiterated his lack of prior knowledge about the claims. The trial continues as Kenneth Lingard denies all charges.