Aheed Abrar

Tue 24 March 2026 20:40, UK

Everton could potentially see James Garner be a part of England’s 2026 World Cup squad.

Darren Bent believes the midfielder has an opportunity to stake his claim in the Three Lions’ setup if he can take his opportunity in the upcoming international friendlies.

The former England international is confident that the 25-year-old could be a part of Thomas Tuchel’s plans in the summer if he can continue his fine form for the Toffees this season.

Garner has thrived under David Moyes and the Scottish manager’s faith in the former Manchester United ace may lead to his first senior international cap.

James Garner has tough competition away from Everton

Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, Jordan Henderson and Kobbie Mainoo are all part of Tuchel’s recent midfield selections for England.

Several names from the 35-man squad list won’t be part of the Three Lions’ World Cup campaign, with Garner facing heavy competition.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Toffees star miss out in the summer, considering the talent at the German manager’s disposal.

All Garner can now do is make sure he’s in the best shape and position to give Tuchel something to think about before the tournament kicks off in Canada, Mexico and the USA.

While the Blues’ midfielder won’t have much time with the former Paris Saint-Germain boss with the Three Lions’ setup, he will certainly hope to make the best of it.

Speaking on talkSPORT on 24 March, Bent said, “If he gets an opportunity in this first friendly and plays really well and he continues what he’s been doing for Everton, then he’s got to be in with a shout, he has to be in with a shout. If he turns up, he does well, puts in a performance, looks comfortable at that level, integrates himself into the squad because that’s a big thing with England.”

David Moyes regular will be gutted to miss out on England squad

England don’t seem to have many solid options in defence, and that’s where James Tarkowski’s name should have come in.

Instead of relying on an injury-prone John Stones and an inconsistent Harry Maguire, the 33-year-old may have been a better option for Tuchel after another brilliant season for Everton, beating Chelsea 3-0 on 21 March at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Tarkowski rivals Van Dijk when it comes to aerial duels won this season and the defender has been one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League.

While the Toffees defender might not have much international experience, he’s been consistently good for the Merseyside outfit for several seasons now.