James Garner has revealed that he is yet to speak to Erik ten Hag amid speculation surrounding the Manchester United youngster’s future.
The 21-year-old has made just two senior appearances for the Red Devils but following a highly impressive 18-month loan spell at Nottingham Forest, many have backed the midfielder to break into the United first team.
Last season, Garner played an integral part in Forest’s promotion to the Premier League, scoring four, assisting eight and starting the play-off final victory against Huddersfield.
New United manager Ten Hag is currently in the process of assessing his squad and will likely make a decision on who stays and goes after their pre-season tour, but Garner admitted he hasn’t had the time to talk to his new boss.
‘I’ve not spoken to Erik ten Hag yet. I’ve not spoken to anyone at the club yet,’ Garner said following the England U21’s defeat to Slovenia on Monday.
‘From the play-off final I’ve gone straight to being with England, so I’ve had no rest and no break yet. It’s been football, football, football.
‘It’s time for a rest now. I’m not too sure what the future holds.’
With United set to play in the Europa League next season, it is possible that Ten Hag will keep many youngsters at Old Trafford in order to give them opportunities and keep the squad fit.
Centre midfield is also an area that United need to seriously address as following the departure of several players at the end of their contracts, their only senior options in that position are Bruno Fernandes, Fred and Scott McTominay, although Donny van de Beek and Andreas Pereira are also set to return from their loan spells as well.
But the leap from the Championship to the Premier League is tough, and some feel that another loan may benefit Garner, with Forest linked to re-signing the player.
Asked what he would prefer to do, Garner replied: ‘I’m not too sure, personally. I’ve not had much time to think in honesty.
‘I’ve gone from the Championship play-off final to international football. I’ve not had a breather or time to think about what I want. I’d like to go on pre-season and impress.
‘It’s down to me as a player to impress and make a mark. I know how good a style of football Ajax play so it’s exciting.’
MORE : Nottingham Forest make move to sign Ainsley Maitland-Niles from Arsenal
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