Aheed Abrar
James Garner admits he’s willing to leave Manchester United on loan for regular game time
James Garner is open to leaving Manchester United on loan once again next season. The academy graduate spent the last two seasons on loan in the Championship.
The 21-year-old spent half a season with Watford in the 2020/21 season before moving to Nottingham Forest. In the 18 months with the Tricky Trees, the midfielder has been impressive.
Speaking with PA News Agency (h/t Manchester Evening News), Garner revealed his aspirations to play for the Red Devils. But if opportunities are less abundant at Old Trafford, the 21-year-old is “definitely open” to going out on loan to a Premier League side.
“I want to play for United. Of course that’s obviously my aim. But I feel like if I’m not going to be playing as regularly as I would like to then I’m definitely open to going back on loan to a Premier League side. I feel like I’m a midfielder that can do pretty much everything.”
Garner’s last season in the Championship with Forest was a successful spell. The Tricky Trees made their way back to the Premier League through the play-offs.
The 21-year-old defensive midfielder was one of their leading players, featuring in 49 games throughout the season. The England U21 international also scored four goals and gave 10 assists in all competitions.
Garner is a versatile midfielder capable of playing in various midfield positions. Although predominantly used in a more defensive role, the 21-year-old is capable of playing further up front as well.
“I feel like I can play in the six or eight role. Last season I played in the 10 role as well – I’m not saying that’s what I prefer, but I’m saying I can play in that position if needed – so I feel like I offer everything that a midfielder would need.”
Currently, Erik ten Hag has two options to play in the defensive midfield role apart from Garner. For the past few seasons, Fred and Scott McTominay have been deployed by various managers in the double pivot. But fans haven’t been convinced by them.
While the 21-year-old doesn’t have experience in English football’s first tier, the academy graduate has shown potential. And United could do with players like Garner going into next season.
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Fans will hope the Englishman stays for the upcoming campaign and is given the opportunity to convince the manager. It remains to be seen what the future holds for him.
