James Garner has explained why he opted to rejoin Nottingham Forest on loan, despite interest from elsewhere in his services.
The talented midfielder signed a new contract with Manchester United before agreeing to spend a second stint at The City Ground, as he hopes to help Chris Hughton's men to climb the Championship table.
After shining for Forest in the behind-closed-doors games last term, he is desperate to repay some of the affection shown by the club's fans in packed stadiums again.
“I can’t wait to get started [at Forest] really,”
Garner told us. “Last season, I had a good loan spell there so I can’t wait to get back and play in such a tough league and showcase my ability to everyone and hopefully show everyone what I can do.
“The fans at Forest have been such a key factor in why I wanted to go back there. All the messages and support that I’ve received since I joined the club and even until now. I can't wait to play in front of a packed-out stadium there.”
Signing a new deal at United is another sign of progress for the 20-year-old, who is determined to fulfil his long-term ambition to become a regular in the Reds' engine room.
“I’m made up, the club has been a massive part of my life for over 10 years, and this just shows how much the club believes in me,”
he added.
“It means a lot for me and my family. The sacrifices that we had to make to get me to where I am now, so I’m made up.
“I’ve been here since I was a kid, my ambitions are obviously to become a first-team player here. Of course, I know what it takes and I know what I’ve got to do. I’m going to keep on doing what I’m doing and keep on striving for all my goals.
“Of course, I want to be a regular in the team, I want to play in front of the fans week in week out, I want to win trophies at the club. I want to be a big part of the club and that is my ultimate aim.”