90min

Juan Mata Backs James Garner to Become a 'Very, Very Good Midfielder'

By James Cormack

James Garner is currently out on loan at Watford from Manchester United
James Garner is currently out on loan at Watford from Manchester United / Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
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Juan Mata has heaped tons of praise on Manchester United youngster James Garner, suggesting the 19-year-old could evolve into a "very, very good midfielder."

After making his first-team debut in February 2019, Garner went on to make two Premier League appearances for the Red Devils before being loaned out to Championship side Watford in the summer.

The 19-year-old made a pair of Premier League appearances for United before his summer loan
The 19-year-old made a pair of Premier League appearances for United before his summer loan / James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images

He's since emerged as an important figure in Vladimir Ivic's side - notching 11 appearances this term - with his manager describing him as "one of the most talented players in England" (via the Metro).

Mata, meanwhile, is hopeful that his good friend Garner will transform into a star at Old Trafford.

"I always thought he is one of the players who, if he keeps going and keeps improving, in the way he was doing in the Academy, he can be a very, very good midfielder," Mata told the official Manchester United website.

"I really like him; the way he plays on the ball, his cleverness, his way of looking forward, looking for a pass and also his attitude off the ball. So, whenever he was here, I always tried to encourage him and said what I believed he could be as a player.

"I always tried to motivate him and give him confidence as I think, when you’re that age, you need confidence and trust – not only from the manager but also from your team-mates. I wish him all the best at Watford and I am sure he will do well. He’s a great guy and a very good player, as I’ve said before because he keeps improving every day," added the Spaniard.

Garner noted Mata as one of the best players he's ever played with
Garner noted Mata as one of the best players he's ever played with / Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images

Previously, Garner was asked in a Q&A on Watford's official website who was the best footballer he'd played alongside, and replied: "I’ve played with some top, top players. I have to say Juan Mata is class.

"Everything about him – his touch, his pass, how he speaks to you on and off the pitch – he’s just a real nice guy," the teenager added.

When this was mentioned to Mata in the interview before he waxed lyrical over the 19-year-old, the veteran creator said: “He is a good friend, that’s why he speaks so well of me!”