Lincoln City should refrain from adding a recently linked target as their third addition, despite having made two significant acquisitions this January.
Lincoln City have no need for another young striker
Walsall are reportedly leading the race for Gardner, after being denied another of their much-gossiped targets in the shape of Lincoln striker Freddie Draper.
The 19-year-old Gardner has had a remarkable stint with Forest’s under-21 squad. He has made 12 Premier League 2 appearances this season, scoring six goals and providing two assists. This includes a brace against Chelsea and a hat-trick against Everton.
He made his senior team debut in an FA Cup match against Bristol City last season and has appeared in several Premier League games for Nottingham Forest’s first team.
But that’s not necessary for the Imps. They’ve got it already.
Jovon Makama and the previously mentioned Draper are proud representatives of a robust youth system that have progressed through the City’s levels. Bailey Cadamarteri, a Sheffield Wednesday prodigy, has joined them on loan.
Even though the latter is now injured, there is no justification for adding another inexperienced attacker to the team.
It would potentially overstuff Michael Skubala’s options since, although having a variety of players and strategies is beneficial, there are situations when having too many excellent things can be problematic.
Gardner’s addition would get beyond that obstacle.
Although it is obvious that he has the potential to succeed in the game—top-tier teams do not give their academy youngsters exposure and playing time for nothing—he is not now a suitable fit for Lincoln.
Lincoln City have a good mix of youth and experience after Derby County signing
Ben House was the most experienced head in the Imps attack until last week when Derby County striker James Collins switched the Rams for Lincoln.
The 34-year-old netted off the bench on his debut, as Skubala’s side romped past rivals Peterborough United in a chastening defeat for Darren Ferguson and his team.
His ability to score goals—he has more over 200 senior career goals—fits in well with his experience and duration in the EFL. Their combination is just what Lincoln needed to bolster their team.
In City’s front line, the promotion winner from Sky Bet League One has struck a mix between youth and experience.
At a time when Lincoln’s attack requires consistency and solidity, adding another player on the former list would jeopardise Collins’ acquisition.
Following back-to-back wins, the Imps are rising in the League One standings, and as the January transfer window nears its conclusion, they ought to shift their attention elsewhere.
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