Garner ready to talk over his next step
JAMES Garner will hold talks with Manchester United staff about his future, following an impressive loan spell at Nottingham Forest.
The young midfielder was a big hit for the Reds, having joined in January after spending the first half of the season with Watford.
He became a regular starter for Chris Hughton’s side and racked up four goals in 20 appearances to finish as the club’s joint-second top scorer in the Championship.
Forest would love to re-sign him for next term but face competition from elsewhere, with the player’s agent saying Brighton & Hove Albion, Norwich City and Rangers are all interested.
It has also been suggested a switch abroad could be considered, while competing for a place at Old Trafford hasn’t been ruled out.
Garner has made clear his ultimate dream is to force his way into United’s first team, hoping his time in the Garibaldi will help him do that.
The 20-year-old was asked by Inside United, the club’s official magazine, if his plan was to return from the Reds better equipped for the Premier League.
He said: “I’ve been working hard, physically and mentally, and it’s something I’m trying to add into my game.
“Hopefully, when I come back at the end of the season, I’ll sit down with the coaches and see what’s best for me and what’s going to be best for my development.
“I’ll take it from there really.”
United’s official website says “talks are now planned with the United staff over the best option for the youngster”.
But Garner is in no doubt about his long-term ambition – making a place in the starting 11 his own for his parent club.
“I think that’s ultimately the dream,” he said. “I’ve been at the club since seven or eight and the main focus is to be in the first team and do whatever takes to be with the first team.
“Like I’ve said, I’ll just keep working hard, keep my head down and have to see what is going to be best for my development. But, ultimately, my dream is to be with the first team and play for United.”