Lingard joined the newly promoted Tricky Trees this summer on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract with Manchester United, signing a one-year deal.
Red Devils legend Keane feels that the duration of that deal shows a lack of conviction from both the player as well as the club, who harbour ambitions of a lengthy spell back in the top flight.
He acknowledged that the 29-year-old attacking midfielder is a talented footballer but added that the numbers paint a slightly different picture.
Keane admits that he will not be looking to Lingard to produce the goods on a weekly basis while at the City Ground and advised Nottingham Forest to do likewise.
“Jesse Lingard has signed at Forest a one-year deal, is there real commitment from him and the club?” Keane said on Sky Sports.
“He’s a talented boy but the most goals he’s scored in one season is eight.
“He was at Manchester United for 11 years and played 150 games only.
“I wouldn’t be hanging my hat on Jesse Lingard.”
Lingard made 21 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils last season, scoring twice and laying on a solitary assist as he was played in as many as six different positions.
It remains to be seen if the England international can reclaim the form he displayed while on loan at West Ham United during the second half of the 2020/21 season, which led the Hammers to try to sign him this summer.
