James Garner: Everton Midfielder Earns First England Call-Up & Eyes World Cup Spot
James Garner is poised to realize a long-held ambition this week, having earned his first call-up to the England national team. The Everton midfielder, 25, acknowledges that this season has been pivotal in achieving that goal, a defining year where he’s finally been able to consistently demonstrate his capabilities.
Garner could make his international debut in either of England’s upcoming friendlies: against Uruguay on , and against Japan on . These matches represent a crucial opportunity for players to impress manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of the final squad selection for the World Cup. The call-up itself came as a surprise, delivered by Tuchel over the phone last week, a secret Garner kept to himself for a full 24 hours before sharing the news with his family.
“I told myself at the start of the season that this season has to be the season that I can show everyone what I can do and I think so far I have done,” Garner stated. His journey to this point hasn’t been without its obstacles. Recurring injuries and a prolonged period of struggle for his club have previously hampered his progress.
Garner candidly discussed the challenges he’s faced since joining Everton. “Since I signed for Everton I’ve had quite unlucky spells with two serious back injuries so that obviously put me out for a long time. Then obviously the first three years we’ve been fighting in the relegation zone so it’s been quite tough for me to really showcase what I can do.” Those years spent battling relegation created a difficult environment to truly flourish, limiting opportunities to display his full potential.
This season, however, feels different. The arrival of a new manager, David Moyes, coupled with the prospect of a new stadium, provided a fresh impetus. With his contract nearing its final year, Garner recognized the need to prove his worth. “Then I just thought to myself that this season is a fresh season, new manager, new stadium. With a year left on my contract as well I knew that I had to show everybody what I’m really about and showcase all my talents. I’m glad that this season is going as well as it is.”
And it is going well. Garner has develop into an integral part of Moyes’s Everton side, currently sitting eighth in the Premier League. His versatility is a key asset. while primarily a central midfielder, he’s frequently deployed as a right-back when needed, and possesses a reputation as a set-piece specialist. This adaptability could prove valuable as Tuchel assesses his options for the 26-man World Cup squad.
Garner’s international aspirations aren’t new. He has represented England at various youth levels, from under-17s through to under-21s, and was a member of the victorious under-21 team that won the Under-21 European Championship in 2023, alongside current squad members James Trafford and Cole Palmer. He now aims to translate that success to the senior stage. “I just want to go that one step further now and hopefully win a trophy for the first team as well,” he said.
The call-up also adds a layer of familial complexity. Garner’s family are Liverpool supporters, creating a playful dynamic. He hopes his father will be able to travel from Thailand to Wembley to witness the matches. “My dad’s particularly proud. Phoning him this time about England rather than a club that he doesn’t support is very nice and it was a very nice call as well.”
Garner’s story is one of perseverance and seizing opportunity. After battling injuries and team struggles, he’s finally positioned himself on the cusp of international recognition. The upcoming friendlies offer a platform to solidify his place in Tuchel’s plans and potentially contribute to England’s World Cup campaign. This season, as Garner himself acknowledges, has been about showcasing his talents, and he’s doing just that, earning a deserved opportunity to represent his country.