Wayne Rooney full of praise for brilliant James Garner after Chelsea masterclass

James Garner has made a combined 140 tackles (90) and interceptions (50) in the Premier League this season, more than any other player
No midfielder has won possession more times in the Top 5 Leagues than James Garner (323)

Everton’s 3-0 victory over Chelsea on Saturday was a massive win. The Toffees dominated from start to finish, with Beto’s brace and Iliman Ndiaye sealing the three points. The win puts them just three points off Liverpool, who are in the fifth spot. But for those watching closely, one player stood above the rest.

James Garner ran the show from midfield. The 25-year-old, who received his first England call-up earlier in the week, provided a sublime assist for Beto’s opening goal. It summed up Garner’s performance, but his influence went far beyond that single pass.

Rooney and Shearer agree on Garner’s quality

Speaking on Match of the Day, both Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer singled out Garner for special praise.

Alan Shearer said: “Garner I thought, was absolutely outstanding; he ran the show. The weight off pass for that ball into Beto. There was no way through [for Chelsea]. If they go past one [Everton player], Garner’s coming to snap into you.”

Wayne Rooney agreed, adding: “I think he’s been outstanding, not just this season, but last season as well. It’s great for Everton that he’s signed a new contract as well.”

Wayne Rooney also revealed that he had tried to sign Garner on loan during his time as Derby County manager. “I’ve known him since he was a young lad. He came through Manchester United’s academy. He’s always had potential and he’s fulfilling that potential now,” Rooney said.

James Garner continues to impress! pic.twitter.com/QIo4eqJT7j
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) March 21, 2026

Excellent season for James Garner

The numbers behind Garner’s season are remarkable. He has made a combined 140 tackles and interceptions in the Premier League this season, more than any other player. He now has six assists this season, the most this term for Everton. And across Europe’s top five leagues, no midfielder has won possession more times than Garner’s 323. (via DataMB)

Rooney believes the Everton midfielder will get his chance for England during the upcoming international break. “I think he’ll get game time for England. Tuchel’s going to leave 11 players out [v Uruguay] so I think he’ll get some playing time,” he predicted.

For Everton, Garner’s rise has been a cornerstone of their season. He signed a new contract in January that keeps him at the club until 2030, securing his long-term future. On Saturday, he showed exactly why David Moyes and the club were so keen to tie him down.

The Toffees are now just three points off fifth place and the Champions League spots that England’s coefficient ranking has likely secured. With Garner in this form, Everton have every reason to believe they can finish the season strongly.