David Moyes has admitted James Garner remains “a little bit off” his best level for Everton, despite the midfielder pushing through an interrupted start to the season and back into the England squad.
Garner has remained a central figure in Moyes’ side after undergoing hernia surgery during the summer, an operation which disrupted his preparations for the new campaign.
The 25-year-old made a notably quick recovery and has since worked his way back into the England picture. Moyes, however, believes there is still more to come from a player who set exceptionally high standards last season.
Asked whether Everton were still having to manage Garner’s recovery, Moyes said: “No, we have managed it, but Jimmy has pushed on really hard and got himself into the England squad.
“But he’s still got a little bit to go to get his best levels which he showed last year.
“So, we’re hoping that he gets back to that. He’s still a little bit off it, but we want to keep pushing him and he’s a hugely important player for us.”
Garner still searching for last season’s level
Moyes’ assessment is notable given Garner’s importance to Everton. He played all 38 Premier League games last season, missing only six minutes across the campaign, and was subsequently named the club’s Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season.
His performances also earned senior England recognition, underlining his development into one of Everton’s most dependable players.
Moyes had already acknowledged earlier this season that Garner was still working towards full fitness after returning quickly from his operation. His latest comments therefore point to an ongoing process rather than a fresh injury concern.
Garner nevertheless remains firmly in the manager’s plans. He played the full 90 minutes in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea and has featured in every Premier League game this season.
With Everton travelling to Arsenal on Saturday, Moyes will hope one of his key midfielders can continue closing the gap between his current level and the form which made him such an influential figure last season.
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