The writing is on the wall for James Garner‘s Manchester United future after he was left out of the squad entirely against Liverpool.
The start to this season has been a nightmare for the 21-year-old, who entered the campaign with such high hopes after helping Nottingham Forest win promotion.
Garner suffered an injury which kept him out of most of Manchester United’s pre-season tour. Then he began the first two Premier League matches on the bench.
Erik ten Hag shook up the squad for the match against Liverpool, selecting three players for their first start of the season, Tyrell Malacia, Raphael Varane and Anthony Elanga. Meanwhile, James Garner was nowhere to be seen.
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Writing on the wall for James Garner
Garner failed to make the substitute’s bench, an indication his time at the club is coming to an end
Competition for places is set to intensify, with Casemiro entering the mix. Further attacking signings are also expected.
Even with expanded substitutes benches compared to last season, Garner is an unfortunate non-factor.
Hopes that he could provide an alternative to Scott McTominay have gone, with manager Erik ten Hag still favouring the Scotland international, who started against Liverpool.
Recent reports have linked Garner with an exit. The Athletic have reported Manchester United plan to sell Garner before the deadline.
This seemed like a poor message to send to United’s other young players and loanees, with Garner sold without getting a proper first team opportunity, after proving himself on loan.
But unfortunately this seems to be the reality of the situation, with no place for Garner in the United side, while prodigious youngster Zidane Iqbal is hot on his heels and could over take him.
Monday night reinforced the view that Garner is heading for the exit, now it is just a case of where, and for how much.
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