Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Wed 6 May 2026 19:10, UK

Everton midfielder James Garner will surely be on the England plane heading to the World Cup based on his performances this season.

The Englishman received his debut for England over the last international break, earning himself immense praise from Thomas Tuchel from his two caps.

Tuchel compared the Toffees ace to Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valverde due to his ability to general the midfield and play in various positions.

With those comments, you would expect the 25-year-old to be World Cup bound, but questions still remain as to what role he could play.

However, Garner’s chance to start for England could now be increased following Arsenal’s Champions League success.

How has James Garner received a boost for England chances?

Garner has been ever so valuable for Everton, and his performances have been rightfully rewarded this season.

Firstly, the Toffees handed him a new contract at Hill Dickinson Stadium, and secondly, he earned his inaugural England call-up. Now, he has been provided a positive boost for the World Cup.

According to Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett, Arsenal’s Champions League success means that midfielder Declan Rice will miss most of England’s preparation for the summer tournament.

It now leaves Garner an opportunity to get more minutes in the midfield over the course of the Three Lions’ pre-World Cup friendlies.

Tuchel’s side is set to play New Zealand in the lead-up to the competition, with Rice unlikely to be available.

If Garner impresses in training, in the absence of the Arsenal midfielder, it could increase his stock in the eyes of his national manager.

It is certainly a major positive for the Englishman, and now it is a matter of waiting to find out if he does in fact make the squad.

But all signs point to good news for Garner.

When will James Garner learn if he has made England squad?

Tuchel will first have to name a provisional 55-man squad as per FIFA rules, which must be submitted before 11 May.

The German is allowed to go below that threshold.

However, when it comes to the official 26-man squad for the competition, that will have to be named before 30 May.

With the Premier League season concluding on 24 May, the German is likely to wait until the final matches have ended to see if any injury concerns have emerged.

So, it will not be long until Garner learns his World Cup fate, and Everton fans will be perplexed if he does not make the final cut.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.