Everton midfielder James Garner is emerging as a strong contender for an England call-up ahead of the March international break, with his performances in the Premier League attracting increasing attention.
England head coach Thomas Tuchel is expected to name his final squad before selecting the group that will travel to the 2026 World Cup. Friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan later this month will provide the last opportunity to assess players outside the regular core.
Among the names pushing for inclusion is Garner, whose consistency for Everton has made him one of the most influential midfielders at Goodison Park this season.
James Garner England call-up case strengthened by Everton form
Garner has become a central figure in David Moyes’ Everton side during the 2025/26 campaign.
After entering the season without guaranteed starting status, the former Manchester United midfielder has developed into one of the first names on the team sheet.
Only James Tarkowski has played more Premier League minutes for Everton this season, highlighting Garner’s importance to the team’s structure.
Creatively, he has also contributed significantly, registering five assists and consistently providing chances from open play and set pieces.
| James Garner – Premier League 2025/26 | Stat |
|---|---|
| Minutes played | 2,610 |
| Touches | 2,031 |
| Assists | 5 |
| Chances created | 42 |
| Pass accuracy | 87.7% |
| Interceptions | 46 |
| Tackles | 88 |
source: sofascore match data – 6 March 2026
These numbers place Garner among the most productive midfielders in Everton’s squad this season.
Defensive contribution highlights all-round midfield role
Beyond his creativity, Garner’s defensive work has also been notable.
He leads Everton in interceptions and ranks among the top players in the Premier League for tackles, underlining his ability to contribute on both sides of the ball.
Having followed Everton’s matches closely this season, his ability to control tempo while breaking up opposition attacks has often been crucial in Moyes’ tactical system.
That balance between defensive awareness and attacking contribution could prove valuable at international level.
Competition in England midfield remains intense
Despite Garner’s form, competition for places in England’s midfield remains strong.
Players such as Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson are already established options within Tuchel’s plans, while other Premier League midfielders continue to push for inclusion.
However, Garner’s versatility may strengthen his case. The Everton midfielder has shown he can operate in multiple roles, including right-back and wide midfield positions when required.
However, it remains too early to determine whether Tuchel will include him in the upcoming squad.
Key Insights
- James Garner has been one of Everton’s most consistent players this season.
- The midfielder has five assists and leads the club in chances created.
- Garner also ranks highly in tackles and interceptions.
- England face Uruguay and Japan in friendlies later this month.
- Thomas Tuchel will name his final squad before the World Cup selection.
What’s Next?
England’s upcoming friendlies will serve as Tuchel’s final opportunity to evaluate potential additions to his squad before the World Cup.
Players performing strongly in the Premier League over the coming weeks may still influence selection decisions.
For Garner, maintaining his current form with Everton could increase his chances of earning an international call-up.
Should James Garner be included in England’s next squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup?
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