- James Garner has emphasised his skill and adaptability for Everton this season.
- Having played across the defence and midfield, he is one of Moyes’ trusted players.
- The 25-year-old earned first England call-up in March and is laying down quality stats.
James Garner has received widespread praise for his impressive season with Everton.
After making his England men’s debut in March, he is pushing for a call-up to this summer’s FIFA World Cup and is hoping to help Everton secure a return to European football.
He only featured in 21 league games last season, but since then has been one of the Toffees’ most important players and has been a presence at both ends of the pitch.
With just five games remaining in the season, Garner has been ranked as one of the best midfielders in Europe, and he will hope to continue this form at a crucial point in the league campaign.
James Garner is topping a defensive metric
Garner is the only player to achieve over 100 tackles and make over 50 interceptions in Europe’s top five leagues this season, according to Squawka.
On top of this, he has also made more tackles and interceptions than any other English player.
His performances indicate that there is easily a spot for the 25-year-old in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, and while he would likely not be a starter, his stance as a utility player could be very useful.
The Toffees will be grateful that Garner penned a new deal with the club in January of this year, which means he has extended his stay at Hill Dickinson Stadium until June 2030.
World Cup call-up is deserved but a rest would also be welcome
Garner presents himself as an ideal player for England ahead of the World Cup, and through the nature of major international tournaments, the midfielder is the type of player any nation wants.
Having shown his abilities to play as a defender, holding midfielder, or in a more advanced role, he is a man that Tuchel can turn to if his side are defending a lead, pushing for a goal, or when they are just looking to rotate the squad.
So Garner has a real opportunity of playing at football’s biggest tournament, and it is something he truly deserves, but should he be overlooked, this would play nicely into the Toffees’ hands.
The 25-year-old has played in every Everton match this season, which is a testament to his skill, commitment, and fitness.
He has been the definition of a reliable starter for the Blues, and should he not earn a World Cup call-up, a well-deserved rest this summer would be beneficial.
Regardless of what Tuchel chooses to do with Garner, this season has proven that Everton holds a truly valuable midfielder and the future looks bright with him at the heart of their squad.
