After a dominant display against Premier League side Arsenal, has James Garner finally proven his ability to perform against a top side and therefore deserves to slot into Manchester United’s midfield?
The Red Devil’s academy graduate, currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, faced FA Cup 2020 winners Arsenal in the third round with Garner’s side coming out on top to knock the record holders out after a 1-0 win.
Throughout the game, Garner was able to hold his own and control the midfield with a total of six ball recoveries and three clearances. The youngster was also flawless in the air having won 100% of his aerial duels.
However, this isn’t the first time this season that Garner has stood out for his hard-working performances. Despite playing in the defensive midfielder role, the Englishman has been able to show a glimpse of creativity with a goal and assist in their 2-0 win over Peterborough United earlier in the season.
The number 37 was a shining light despite a 1-0 defeat to Huddersfield Town in the Championship, making five interceptions and one key clearance, and was successful in both his runs.
However, Garner’s strong performances in the defensive role are not infrequent; during the 2020/21 the youngster finished second in the overall squad ratings for Forest with an average rating of 7.01, earning himself a second spell at the Championship side.
Despite his young age, Garner has displayed his maturity and discipline on the field having only picked up a total of four yellow cards in 40 matches.
Garner’s prime role in Steve Cooper’s side focuses on protecting the backline and has been emphasised by producing an average of three tackles and interceptions per game. Despite playing in this role, his ability to site key forward passes and dribble through ‘tough-to-break-down’ midfields has caught the attention of many United fans.
The Red Devils’ loanee has attracted even more attention due to the struggling pair of United’s current midfield pivot of ‘McFred’ – Scott McTominay and Fred.
Individually, both McTominay and Fred have, at times, proven their ability. McTominay had a relatively decent 20/21 season, having netted four goals and had an average rating of 7.08 compared to Fred’s one goal and rating of 7.04. Despite this, United continued to stick with the McFred pairing.
Compared to last season, McTominay’s form has dropped off and has often caused annoyance amongst the Red’s fanbase – especially when the Dutchman Donny Van de Beek has rarely been given the opportunity. The Scotsman’s average rating this season has declined to 6.88 with the Brazilian’s also decreasing to 6.98. The duo had their best game against bottom of the league Norwich but still only managed to produce ratings of 7.5 and 8.0.
Whilst McTominay offers a great physical presence, his defensive ability has, at times, cost his side and cannot be left alone to cover. His vulnerability therefore requires a partner and restricts the number six from freedom to create or drift too high up. In comparison, Garner is far more suited to that role then his fellow academy graduate due to his energy and strong defensive ability.
On the other hand, the number 17 offers more defensively than McTominay however lacks the stability in which a sole defensive midfielder requires. Despite this, his energy levels and desire to regain possession is a strength and has often been evident this season.
Whilst Garner is only 20 and still developing, there is a player in there for United fans to get excited about and could even, in time, make the list of successful academy products cementing his place in the Red Devils’ starting line-up.
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