Chris Hughton was integral to Nottingham Forest signing James Garner on loan, according to Manchester United academy performance manager Les Parry.

The 19-year-old midfielder had spent the first half of the season on loan with Watford but struggled to nail down a regular spot in the starting XI at Vicarage Road.

That paved the way for another loan move in the Championship as Forest swooped for his signature.

Garner has started the last two games for Forest and looked hugely impressive in the process - something that will no doubt delight supporters of the club.

But with plenty of other interest in his services, Parry has revealed that it was Hughton who proved decisive.

Speaking to Man United's official website, Parry said: "James has done well getting to Forest.

"The manager Chris Hughton was really keen on him. What happened at Watford is the bane of our lives: a manager change. It is one thing that can kill loans because the new manager comes in and, the first thing he wants to do, is look at the longer term with the players there, which is understandable.

"Although James did really well in the first part of his loan, he only played about 40 minutes in six games under the new manager so we looked around, trying to find a Championship club for him. Forest came up and were keen so we were able to negotiate the swap.

"It is a fantastic move for him and they've managed to lift themselves a little bit towards safety as well, which is good as they can maybe relax a little bit. He got Man of the Match in a few quarters on his debut, against Coventry, so he's started well. He's a good player and he will do well.

"Chris Hughton was one of the attractions for us, to be quite honest with you, with us selecting Forest. I think all of our coaches, and myself, have great respect for Chris. He has a great reputation for the way he treats players, which is important for us. On top of that, with him really fancying James as a player, and the fact he's going to treat him well, educate him well, was massive in making the decision.”

The verdict

This is a great opportunity for James Garner.

Playing for a club like Nottingham Forest is a great chance for the player to get an insight into what it's like playing for a club with high expectations.

For Forest they'll be hoping to get the best from the player, while the 19-year-old will surely be keen to improve his game under Chris Hughton.