James Garner's Nottingham Forest promise gives Erik ten Hag a huge Manchester United boost

When Nottingham Forest's players and supporters descend on Wembley for the Championship play-off final this afternoon, it will be the first time that the national stadium has been invaded by the red half of the East Midlands in 30 years.

Forest have not graced the home of football since being beaten 1-0 by Manchester United in the 1992 League Cup final, meaning this afternoon's winner-takes-all clash with Huddersfield Town will be a special occasion for everyone in red. They have been starved of success in recent years and they are now within touching distance of ending their 23-year exile from the Premier League.

Revitalised under manager Steve Cooper since he took charge in September, Forest have been on a continuous upward trajectory, with countless stylish collective and individual performances having attracted a wave of praise and admiration. And a large portion of that praise has been sent in the direction of United loanee James Garner.

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The England Under-21 international, following a short-term loan spell at the City Ground last season, returned to the banks of the Trent in August, signing on loan for the duration of the season. It was a decision that suited all parties perfectly and former United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was confident that another season in the Championship would serve the Birkenhead-born midfield ace well.

After 47 appearances, four goals and 10 assists this season, the United loanee has the chance to make his 48th and final appearance of the campaign the most memorable of his career to date. What it would mean for the city of Nottingham to see Forest return to the Premier League cannot be disputed.

Garne