Teddy Sheringham believes James Garner’s impressive Nottingham Forest loan spell will leave him “itching” to break into Manchester United’s first-team.
The midfielder has gone from strength to strength under the guidance of Steve Cooper during his second stint at the City Ground. With 48 appearances and four goals, Garner has been integral to a brilliant season for the Reds.
He was a key figure in a stunning run to the FA Cup quarter-finals, and has also been at the heart of a promotion push which has taken Forest to within 90 minutes of the Premier League. And the 21-year-old will hope to shine on the big stage, against Huddersfield Town at Wembley in the play-offs final a week on Sunday.
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It is expected he will be given a chance to impress incoming boss Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford in the summer, although there is uncertainty over where he will be playing his trade come the start of next term. But former Forest and United striker Sheringham says Garner will be full of confidence when he returns to his parent club.
"I have not seen enough of him to comment on a wide-scale," Sheringham told the Manchester Evening News. "I know he is one of the reasons why Nottingham Forest are doing so well.
"The manager has obviously been in top form at Forest and he is getting the best out of everyone who is playing at the moment, and James is playing an important part in midfield. He will come back to the club at the end of the season and will be itching to get into the first-team. That is what you want, players who are itching and are excited about getting into the first-team."
Garner has been linked with Leeds United and Southampton. Reports have also suggested he could head back on loan to the Reds to gain top-flight experience, should they secure promotion.
