The 21-year-old won the title of “Young Player of the Season” and made 28 appearances across all competitions for Blackburn last season, scoring four goals. But he joined The Gas following an open conversation with manager John Eustace, which he acknowledged wasn’t an easy choice.
“It was a difficult choice,” Garrett said to Bristol Live. At the end of the day, both Blackburn and I want the best for our respective careers. At that point, we decided what would work best for me this year.
“Last year, I won Young Player of the Year, which has given me a lot of confidence going into this season, but I feel like I want to play at least 30 games this time around. I am aware of the objectives I have set for myself, and ultimately, what matters is how I perform during my ninety minutes on the pitch.
He is currently employed by Matt Taylor, the former Championship manager of Rotherham United. He informed Blackburn manager John Eustace he needed to pick up his game during the summer, so he’s hoping the former Exeter player offers him some minutes.
Eustace seems to have been in agreement with me. He is aware of my desire to play football, so it goes without saying that when I mentioned I wanted to play as many games as I could, he asked if I meant to play as many games at Blackburn.
“I believe he realised that I’m a little boy who is excited to play. I believe I’ve reached the point where I can contribute as well. I believe that I had some excellent performances in the Championship last year, so all I want to do is play a string of games and consistently demonstrate my abilities. You never know, when I do decide to return, I may have to battle and prove my mettle.
As a substitute in the 2-0 loss against high-flying Stockport County, Garrett made his league debut after starting games for The Gas in the EFL Cup and EFL Trophy. Taylor was obviously impressed with his cameo, as he offered him his first League One start this weekend as his side defeated Cambridge United 2-0.
That result left Taylor’s side ninth in the early League One table, giving the young Rovers midfielder a platform to showcase his talents.
Garrett is off to a good start at Rovers. Not bad for four outings! He’s built a claim for a starting spot and appears ready for a run in the squad.
The child is undoubtedly talented; he played a major role for Rovers in the previous season. However, he has made a significant decision regarding his future. It can go wrong fast. Jack Vale, a fellow Rovers player, was regarded highly when he signed with Lincoln City, but he has already fallen in the Ewood Park hierarchy after a subpar loan. Garrett is aiming for much greater success during his sojourn in the West County.
