On loan from United, 20 year old James Garner - who has appeared seven times competitively for the Red Devils - was a key asset for Nottingham Forest as they upset Mikel Arteta's Arsenal with a 1-0 FA Cup Third Round victory earlier this month.
The performance begged the question as to whether the midfielder may be ready to make the leap to become a first team regular at Old Trafford amidst current woes in such department. There was huge scope to impress, and Garner seized the opportunity on a big stage.
The midfielder was operating within a pair alongside Ryan Yates on this particular occasion, playing in front of a back three. However, Garner has also proven to be adept within a pivot screening a back four.
From the outset against Arsenal, Garner showed his technical aptitude. One particular driven long ball proved his excellent passing range in the opening exchanges, with the youngster displaying his impressive technique from the outset. Passes were occasionally miscued and possession was sometimes ceded, though that really encapsulated the midfielder's ambition and overall positive, progressive mindset.
He is certainly content to get on the ball, with the Forest regular's expert use of the ball seemingly above his age due to some distinct maturity. In order to receive possession on a frequent basis, Garner's movement and ability to locate space is a marker of his intelligence.
There were some quieter phases against Arsenal, but that's natural against Premier League opposition who favour dominating possession. No matter, Garner has proven he can certainly be a dictator of play - a passing hub essentially. His composure in possession is a virtue to his game, with his press resistance something essential within a modern midfielder's game.
Speaking of Garner's technical attributes, he is already quite renowned as a set-piece specialist. One distant freekick forced a save from Bernd Leno on the stretch - his strike was strong, proving his ability to hit from range. His delivery when called upon to put the ball in the box is similarly impressive.
The 20 year-old should also be hailed for his work ethic too, always willing to put in the 'hard yards'. He covers lots of ground, simultaneously remaining disciplined and displaying a sufficient sense of positional awareness. Ralf Rangnick would certainly be chomping at the bit seeing Garner's pressing showcases, with his energy something to be admired.
In continuation from this defensive standpoint, Garner has proven himself as a specialist with regards to cutting passing lanes. His positional sense is enough to restrict his opposition, with the midfielder an excellent reader of the game in his young age.
He is also capable enough in duels, able to win headers despite not being one of the tallest midfielders. In addition, he is confident enough to make tackles, even against Premier League opposition.
There is still certain scope for improvement by way of Garner's physical presence, even if he is aggressive enough to contest and succeed in some challenges. No doubt, this would further enhance his defensive game.
Overall, though, Garner's game at a still-tender age certainly poses questions as to whether he may be an option to play in United's midfield going forward. His quality shown at Forest certainly already challenges that of bodies already within the United midfield. Now, his capabilities have been proven against Premier League top four challengers.
Keep a very watchful eye on James Garner, everybody.
コメント