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Gary Gardner reminded us of his talent last night with a stunning goal in Nottingham Forest’s 1-1 draw at Hull City.

The on-loan Aston Villa midfielder thundered in a 35-yard strike to help the managerless Championship outfit to a share of the spoils at the KC Stadium.

Gregg Evans caught up with Nottingham Post reporter Paul Taylor to find out how the 23-year-old has been performing since his move in January.

Form

Gardner has made 13 appearances, two of which came from the bench, and his performances have been steady.

“He hasn’t quite hit the heights of his previous loan move,” said Paul.

“He hasn’t performed badly but he’s been playing in a struggling side so it’s hard to pick out too many positives. His goal last night was his first since returning in January and it was probably also his best display. It was a typical Gardner goal, I don’t think he does tap-ins!”

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Fitness

Known for his injuries in the past, Gardner has maintained his fitness since moving in January. He’s missed just one game since switching from Villa Park. For someone so young, Gardner has had such rotten luck previously.

Injuries to each of his knees ruled him out for lengthy periods in the past and a horror tackle in a pre-season friendly left him on the sidelines for two months with an ankle problem. Finally his troubles now seem to be behind him.

Future

The Solihull-born star signed a new deal at Villa last summer and still has just over two years remaining. He was told when he went out on loan to Forest that he would be a big part of the plans next season if Villa are relegated. Gardner has enough Championship experience to prove he can easily cut it in that division but he hasn’t really been able to test himself enough in the top-flight.

As for his Forest future?

“That depends on who the next manager is following the departure of Dougie Freedman,” said Paul. “Freedman had been working closely with Gardner and the pair had been trying to get the best out of his shooting ability.

“The owners at Forest are keen on him so we’ll wait to see how that one unfolds.”

What the fans think?

Villa fans would like to see him given the chance to impress with a regular run in the side while Forest supporters would also love him to sign permanently. Gardner has immersed himself into the club and he regularly interacts with supporters on Twitter.

What Gardner has said about latest spell at Forest

Clearly he’s enjoying the regular game-time and despite the change of manager he’s happy in his surroundings. The Forest players have taken to him and while he’s turning out in red and white he sees himself as a Forest player. That said, he has not decided where he would prefer to play his football next season.

As a Villa fan he has an affection with the club especially as he’s played in claret and blue ever since he was a little boy. But Forest is now also close to his heart and you’d expect a decision to be made based on how often he is likely to play at each club next term.

Gregg Evans on the defeat to Tottenham