Gary Gardner: Aston Villa midfielder joins Forest on loan

Gary Gardner scored four goals in 18 games for Nottingham Forest during a loan spell last season

Nottingham Forest have signed Aston Villa midfielder Gary Gardner on a loan deal until the end of the season, reports BBC Nottingham Sport.

The 23-year-old, who played 18 games for the Reds during a loan spell last season, is available to face QPR in the FA Cup on Saturday.

Manager Dougie Freedman said: "His quality on the ball will help the squad. He brings a desire to do well.

"I want players who want to come here. Gary expressed a real strong interest."

Freedman added: "He said no to a few other clubs. I think Leeds were interested but he knocked them back to come to a club where he is loved and wanted."

Meanwhile, former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson is training with Forest.

Robinson, 36, is a free agent having been released by Blackburn Rovers at the end of last season.

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