- James Garner shone on his England debut against Uruguay at Wembley.
- Heartbreak for Seamus Coleman as Ireland lose World Cup play-off semi.
- Mykolenko suffered defeat with Ukraine against Sweden in their semi.
So far, it’s been a mix of milestones and heartbreak for Everton’s travelling contingent. With 14 players called up, let’s have a quick look at how the seniors are faring…
England: Debut for Jimmy
After being one of the Toffees’ standout performers in the Premier League this season, James Garner’s England call-up was well deserved, and he gained his first cap in Friday’s friendly against Uruguay. While for some, his excellent performance went under the radar, many have praised him for his effort, technical ability and versatility.
He may not make it onto the plane for the World Cup, but he’s certainly given himself a chance.
While the Uruguay game was a watching brief for Jordan Pickford, he continues to be Thomas Tuchel’s undisputed number one. Expect to see him on Tuesday night when England play Japan.
World Cup heartbreak
Unfortunately, for three Evertonian internationals, all defenders, the dream of playing in this summer’s World Cup ended at the play-off semi-final stage:
- Vitalii Mykolenko: At the end of Ukraine’s crushing 3-1 defeat to Sweden (played in Valencia), Mykolenko was visibly upset. Despite a typically tireless performance down their left flank, he and his teammates were unable to contain Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres, who won the game for the Swedes with a hat-trick. An emotional Mykolenko apologised to Ukraine’s fans after the game, describing their exit as “a disgrace”.
- Seamus Coleman and Jake O’Brien: The Republic of Ireland duo suffered the heartbreak of defeat via a penalty shootout. It was doubly heartbreaking as they were leading 2-0. O’Brien was his usual dominant self, but it was Coleman who belied his years to produce another outstanding display for his country.
Elsewhere…
- Nathan Patterson: The Scot may be a little frustrated by his lack of game time at the Hill Dickinson, but played well in his country’s narrow 1-0 defeat to a lively Japan at Hampden. He spent 81 minutes on the pitch, showed no signs of rustiness, and contributed several key clearances and a fine cross that almost led to a Scott McTominay goal.
- Idrissa Gana Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye: The Senegalese pair both played their part in a comfortable 2-0 win over Peru. Gana captained the side and was his usual industrious self, while Ndiaye’s ability to create is key to his team’s efforts in the attacking third.
