Everton midfielder James Garner says he has “not thought much” about signing a new contract despite approaching the final six months of his current deal. The 24-year-old, who joined from Manchester United in 2022, has become one of David Moyes’ most reliable and versatile performers this season, excelling in central midfield and across both full-back roles when required.
Reports this week suggested that Everton have opened talks over improved terms, with Moyes confirming the club also hold an option to extend his stay. But while the noise around his future grows, Garner insists he is keeping his focus tight.
“I haven’t thought much about it,” he said after the defeat to Chelsea. “You can’t think too far ahead. Every week I’m just trying to get better and help the team.”
Garner admits he is enjoying his football and believes Everton have taken measurable strides since he joined. “We have come on leaps and bounds… we’re definitely moving in the right direction,” he added.
Garner: Everton “were the better team” at Chelsea despite defeat
Moyes described Garner as “one of the best players on the pitch” in the 2–0 loss, and the midfielder echoed the feeling that the result did not reflect the performance.
“I think we were probably the better team,” he said. “The difference was in both boxes — they were more clinical.”
Everton’s early setback came when Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, arguably their standout performer in recent weeks, limped off after just 15 minutes.
“It was massive,” Garner admitted. “But we’ve got quality on the bench to fill his shoes.”
Stats Table – James Garner 2025/26
| Stat (2025/26) | James Garner |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Pass Accuracy | 88% |
source: Sofascore
match data – 14 December 2025
The numbers emphasise Garner’s evolution into a dependable, all-phase midfielder. His two assists and rising involvement in ball progression underline why Moyes trusts him in multiple roles — even if his headline stats remain modest.
Everton want stability — and Garner is central to that
From our experience covering Everton this season, it’s obvious why Moyes wants Garner tied down. His tactical flexibility alone fills three squad roles, and although some argue his attacking output should be higher, his consistency makes him one of the side’s strategic anchors.
But there is nuance here. Although reports suggest talks have opened, Garner’s relaxed attitude hints that negotiations may not be as advanced as publicly framed. It’s worth questioning whether Everton will push aggressively now or allow the option clause to dictate the timeline. His calmness suggests he feels no pressure — a sign of a player comfortable with his standing.
There is also a broader tactical significance. Everton’s ambition to finish in the top half — or even chase Europe — hinges on maintaining midfield stability. Losing Dewsbury-Hall temporarily heightens Garner’s importance. His form now carries even greater weight, especially with fixtures tightening.
Key Insights
- Garner says he “hasn’t thought much” about contract talks.
- Everton hold an option to extend his deal beyond summer 2026.
- Midfielder impressed again in defeat to Chelsea.
- Dewsbury-Hall injury increases midfield responsibility.
- Everton aim for a top-half finish and potential European push.
What’s Next
Everton regroup ahead of next week’s Premier League fixture looking to convert performances into points. Contract discussions will continue in the background, but internally the priority is recovering key players and sustaining the strong structural improvements Moyes has overseen.
👉 Everton fans — should the club push now to secure Garner long-term, or wait until the summer?
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