Max Wilkins

Thu 19 March 2026 18:10, UK

England head coach Thomas Tuchel will announce his next squad on Friday, and Everton star James Garner remains in contention.

The 25-year-old has been a key player under David Moyes this campaign and has certainly stepped up a level at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

That prompted plenty of speculation surrounding his signature with a year remaining on his contract until the Toffees secured his future with a new deal.

His performance levels haven’t stuttered with fresh terms behind him as the ex-Manchester United man continues to showcase his quality in the middle of the park.

Garner’s performance away to Arsenal was evidence of that, with an England call-up potentially now in the pipeline, ready for the upcoming international break.

Thomas Tuchel could name James Garner in England squad

Everton’s number 37 has certainly been up there with one of the best players in his position throughout the current Premier League season.

That has raised questions over his future on the international stage, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.

One thing going against Garner is the massive amount of competition he faces to earn a seat on the plane for the showpiece tournament in North America.

It appears that he could be one step nearer to doing exactly that, with Sky Sports reporting that a first call-up to the England senior squad is close.

The Everton man is said to be offering competition, particularly for Kobbie Mainoo, due to his high performance levels in the Premier League this campaign.

He could be helped, as questions may be raised over the Manchester United man’s fitness intensity levels after a difficult season at Old Trafford.

The same can’t be said for Garner after proving his worth to Moyes regularly on Merseyside weekly.

Everton will benefit from Garner with or without England call-up

One of the main pluses for the Blues star this season has been his availability, having started all 30 Premier League games so far.

That in itself should make him a real option for Tuchel, and a call-up could help take his game up yet another level.

The flip side is that additional training and matches during the international break could slow his form due to fatigue between now and the end of the campaign.

The other possibility is that a Three Lions snub may be the perfect motivation for Garner to prove himself in the final eight games in L4.

It appears Everton could emerge as the winners, whatever unfolds between the midfielder and Tuchel.