Credit: Imago

Cameron Smith

Sat 23 May 2026 8:40, UK

Everton midfielder James Garner has been lauded by his teammates after a sensational campaign.

Garner has come into his own for the Blues this season, named as the Men’s Player of the Season, while he picked up the Players’ Player of the Season Award.

After an initial difficult period with the Toffees, the 25-year-old has continued to shift through the gears.

On the night, Iliman Ndiaye would be awarded Goal of the Season, while Harrison Armstrong would be named Men’s Young Player of the Season.

Though it would be Garner in the spotlight, and it is hard to say it is not deserved after a wonderful campaign for Everton.

Players jump to pile praise on James Garner after award scoop

Following a successful loan spell with Nottingham Forest, Garner would make the move to Everton in 2022.

And after a hit-and-miss period at Goodison Park, he has grown into the key man for the Toffees at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

After picking up both awards, Garner took to Instagram, saying: “Lovely night celebrating some wonderful people. Proud to take home both awards, much appreciated. Plenty more to come.”

In the comments, teammates and others associated with Garner took the chance to pile on the praise.

Tim Iroegbunam would reply with a blue heart. At the same time, James Tarkowski would describe him as “terminator with a magic wand,” after previously calling him a “midfielder who can do everything”.

Alongside those from the current crop, former Everton man Alex Iwobi would say: “The Best,” while Lewis Dobbin would match the heart of Iroegbunam.

A highly respected member of the group at Finch Farm, Garner must be the man Everton are looking to build around as they look to progress up the standings.

Will James Garner be of interest this summer?

Naturally, a season like the one the midfielder has had will attract attention, especially when his role in the England setup back in March is taken into account.

Though Garner is the man for Everton to build around, they have to move heaven and earth to keep hold of him.

The 25-year-old has not made the cut ahead of the World Cup, though he has previously received immense praise from England boss Thomas Tuchel.

It has been a disappointing end to the campaign for the Blues, who were blown out of the European race as a result of a dismal run stretching back to the start of April.

There have been positive signs this season that further progress can be made, with Garner potentially the biggest one.

As David Moyes’ side looks to join that continental race for good next season, their star midfielder must be at the heart of it.

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