Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Tue 7 April 2026 20:10, UK

James Garner led by example when Everton last faced Brentford, but unfortunately, the Toffees could not get the job done.

In the end, David Moyes’ side endured a 4-2 defeat at the Hill Dickinson, but not to the part of Garner.

On the day, the midfielder and Jack Grealish were two of the few strong performers, but with the winger out injured, it now rests on Garner to repeat that display.

With European places on the line, it is absolutely crucial for the Blues to turn up when they travel to London on Saturday afternoon.

Now, ahead of Everton’s reverse fixture against Brentford, Garner should be the example his teammates follow.

How did James Garner perform last time Everton played Brentford?

Garner has been consistent for Everton all season, and even when the scoreline is not trending the Toffees’ way, that does not stop the Englishman.

This was the case when the Blues and the Bees met at Hill Dickinson Stadium back in January.

Garner was a clear standout, alongside Grealish, with his 85 per cent duel success rate a remarkable feat considering his average is 63 per cent.

On the day, the Englishman also seemed to get the better of the opposition when on the ball as well; he completed three out of four dribbles attempted as well as 20 carries.

Additionally, behind the winger, Garner received the highest rating (7.5) of any Everton player, according to Sofascore.

It was certainly a top performance from Garner, and his teammates would do well to follow suit this time around.

Iliman Ndiaye boost will change the game for Everton

One issue Everton had in the last match against Brentford was that Iliman Ndiaye was out injured.

This time, Everton feared Ndiaye could be out again.

However, after being seen in training, the Senegalese winger is primed to feature. His dribbling and creativity, alongside Garner’s ability to solidify the midfield, can make the Toffees more dangerous and less prone to conceding.

Brentford and Everton are level on points, so even the tiniest margin could affect the league table.

Hopefully, the travelling Toffees will witness a much better result this time around against the Bees.

If Moyes’ side begins to slip up after securing a much-needed win against Chelsea, then the sights set on European football could become further away.