- Jagielka played for Everton for 12 years, representing the Blues 322 times.
- James Garner has started all 33 of Everton’s games this season.
- He believes that Garner’s ability to play in several positions could be key.
Phil Jagielka knows a thing or two about representing England. The former Everton captain earned 40 caps for the Three Lions and spent over a decade at Everton.
Talking ahead of the Merseyside Derby, Jagielka has backed James Garner to book a place in Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the World Cup.
Garner has been one of David Moyes’ most consistent performers this season. The 25-year-old has started every Premier League game. He has six assists, 11 big chances created, and an 87% pass completion rate. But it is his versatility that Jagielka believes could seal his place in Tuchel’s squad.
Jagielka: Garner’s versatility is a huge asset
Speaking about the Everton midfielder, Jagielka highlighted how Garner’s ability to fill in at right‑back could be a decisive factor. “Both teams have struggled at right‑back at certain times. But that might be the reason he gets on the plane,” Phil Jagielka said.
“Thomas Tuchel might want that versatility. Obviously, someone he can rely on, not only to play the games, but the training sessions when you’re in camp for so long.”
Garner has already featured in two friendlies for England during the March international break. On his debut against Uruguay, he completed 37 of 40 passes (93%), made four key passes and won nine ground duels. His defensive contribution included five tackles and four recoveries in 68 minutes.
Against Japan, he came off the bench for 19 minutes and still managed two key passes and two accurate crosses from three attempts, completing 20 of 23 passes.
James Garner had a solid outing despite defeat
Garner’s recent performance in the Merseyside derby, despite the cruel late defeat, was a decent one. According to Sofascore, he made 9 tackles, winning 6 of them, and won 13 ground duels as well. He also added one key pass and three crosses, along with 10 defensive contributions overall.
His season numbers are just as impressive. Garner has started all 33 of his league appearances, playing every minute in each of those games. His 87% pass accuracy in the opposition half ranks among the best in the squad. He has created 11 big chances and delivered six assists, most for Everton this season.
Garner’s crossing ability, set‑piece delivery, tackling, ball interception, and concentration are all rated as strong attributes. He has proven he can operate in central midfield or at right‑back without any drop‑off.
With England’s World Cup squad set to be announced in the coming weeks, Garner has given Tuchel plenty to think about. Phil Jagielka has made his point as well. The former England international sees James Garner, who does the simple things well, works tirelessly, and offers flexibility. If that is what Tuchel values, Garner could be boarding that plane to the United States.
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