James Garner had a day to remember on loan at Nottingham Forest at the weekend.
The Manchester United youngster ended the game as Forest’s captain after being passed the armband after a substitution.
It spoke volumes about the high regard in which Garner is held by his teammates and the management staff at Forest, and what a great first impression he has made in just two months.
Garner was awarded the man of the match award too as Forest claimed a draw with play-off bound Brentford.
Forest manager Chris Hughton spoke highly of Garner after the game, speaking to the club website.
Hughton said: “He was really good again today and he has a maturity for his age. It is a hard feat at that age.
“At this moment it is great development for him and you can only play like you are and be in the team if you are good enough and at this moment we are delighted to have him.”
Garner has a brief rest now amid the international break. He was making his 11th start for Forest at the weekend, having only joined at the end of January.
Adding in his Watford spell too, and Garner has now played a total of 33 games out on loan. It’s great experience he is picking up and he will come back to United ready to compete for a spot next season.
Garner’s game by the numbers
Garner touched the ball 71 times in Forest’s 1-1 draw with Brentford, more touches than any midfielder on the pitch.
He made three tackles, one interception and made two clearances, while also leading his Forest teammates by making two successful dribbles.
Garner’s only shot was off target, but his range of passing was in full effect. He completed three long ball passes, more than any other Forest player.
The 19-year-old was full of confidence and if he can finish the season strongly over the next couple of months, he could even influence United’s transfer policy for the summer, with funds diverted away from midfield.
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