Defender Tyler Blackett says he would love to see James Garner back at Nottingham Forest next season.
Manchester United loanee Garner has made a big impact since joining the Reds on loan in January, putting in some standout performances as Chris Hughton’s side have pulled away from relegation trouble.
The Forest manager has been coy about the chances of the midfielder returning for a second stint at the City Ground, and the player’s agent has admitted a number of clubs are casting admiring glances his way.
Like Garner, Blackett came through the youth set-up at Old Trafford, and says there is no doubting his teammate’s ability.
With the Reds aiming to challenge at the top end of the Championship table next term, fighting off competition to re-sign the 20-year-old would certainly be a statement of intent.
Asked if he would like to see Garner back, Blackett said: “Hopefully. I’m not sure what his plans are in his own mind or what the manager has planned for him.
“But we want the best players here. Jimmy is one of our best players now, and he’s showing that.
“If he continues, hopefully he’ll still be here.”
Blackett joined United at the age of eight and signed a professional contract in 2012. He made 12 first-team appearances for the club before switching to Reading.
He is well aware of the pressures and expectations which come with being associated with the Premier League giants.
“I’ve experienced that myself in the past,” said the full-back.
“Jimmy is young and we all know the talent he’s got. It’s just about him enjoying his time here, taking what he can from it and trying to express himself.
“Me and Jimmy are quite close. We speak quite often about our times there at Man U, because I think a lot of the coaches are still pretty much the same from when I was there.
“We have that in common. And the way we both like to play football is something we share.
“It’s good to have him here.
“They (United) are very professional and they do things the right way there.
“From my experience when I was there, everything was done right, everything was given to you in a way in which you could express yourself and be the best player you can be.
“I think that’s now shown with James while he’s here. He trains well, he’s focused and he wants to do well.”
