James Garner shares what Everton manager Frank Lampard told him at Finch Farm
By Jonty Banks
Everton midfielder James Garner has spoken about the influence Frank Lampard has had on his game since his move from Manchester United in the summer transfer window.
Garner has made just two substitute appearances so far this season, with fellow signings Amadou Onana and Idrissa Gueye impressing in his stead during the early stages of the Premier League campaign.
Although Garner has struggled to nail down a spot in the starting XI, the 21-year-old has revealed the advice which Lampard has passed in his direction during his early times at the Merseyside club and believes learning from Lampard could elevate his game to new heights.
“He’s asked me to get on the ball, shoot, cross and just try to create as much as I can,” Garner told official club media.
“He’s also, of course asked me to stick to the game plan, which is the most important thing. We’re a team. To be working every day with a guy like the manager….it’s top.
“You know what he’s done in his career, so if I can emulate somewhat of that, then I’ll be made up.
“It’s just great to be working with him, Ashley Cole and the rest of the staff.”
Time to start
Following his £15 million move from Manchester United in the summer, most may have expected Garner to jump straight into the Everton starting line-up.
But following the summer acquisitions of Onana and Gueye, and the rebirth of Alex Iwobi as a box-to-box midfielder, Garner is having to be patient as he awaits his full Premier League debut.
However, the time finally feels right for Garner to be given a run in the team, as back-to-back defeats to Manchester United and Tottenham have sent the Toffees crashing back down to reality following an impressive run of form beforehand.
The lack of control in possession during these games was the most alarming issue, with Lampard’s side struggling to get a foothold in both games and unable to advance the ball up the pitch on a consistent basis.
And although Garner is traditionally a deep-lying midfielder, his passing range and obvious quality on the ball would allow Everton to string attacks together while still staying a robust tight unit.