James Garner's Everton announcement comes at perfect time amid conflicting England reports

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22 May 2026, 1:40 am

James Garner's superb form for Everton this season may not be enough to land him a place in England's World Cup squad.

The 25-year-old has started all 37 of the Toffees' Premier League matches so far in a range of different positions.

Garner has mainly been used in central midfield, but he has shown his versatility by also featuring at right-back and even left-back.

Despite his strong form, reports emerged on Thursday evening claiming the former Manchester United ace had been left out of Thomas Tuchel's squad.

However, Garner may have been given a reprieve, with an announcement from Everton the same day only aiding his cause.

James Garner lands top Everton award

Garner will be truly gutted if he is not named as part of England's travelling party for the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The versatile midfielder has not only showed what he is capable of for Everton, but also for England when recently given the nod.

James Garner	vs Uruguay
Minutes played	69
Chances created	4
Defensive actions	6
Duels won	6

How James Garner performed for England vs Uruguay

He has arguably been David Moyes' most reliable performer in a campaign that offered so much promise up until just a month or so ago.

Yet David Ornstein reported on Thursday that Garner will not be part of England's squad, with Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Harry Maguire each being high-profile omissions.

However, BBC Sport have since reported that Garner is one of three options that could land the final spot, along with Lewis Myles-Skelly and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Credit: Breaking Media

That is why news elsewhere on Thursday evening could not have been timed any better for Garner, as he was crowned Everton's Player of the Season.

While it is true Tuchel has surely already decided on that final spot, Garner will have all the evidence he needs to show the German why he was wrong should he not land that place.

Who else won award at Everton end-of-season ceremony?

The mood at Thursday's awards ceremony at Hill Dickinson Stadium would not exactly have been buzzing given Everton's form to see out the season.

Still, it has been a good campaign overall from Moyes' men and the future looks a lot brighter than it once did.

Upon landing the top men's award, Garner said: "I feel like I've come into my own this season, so I'm really happy to be recognised by the players and fans.

James Garner in action for England vs Japan.

Credit: Imago

"I genuinely believe there's more to come from me - and the whole team."

Courtney Brosnan was named Women's Player of the Season, meanwhile, and Leighton Baines was named an 'Everton Giant' for his services to the Merseyside club.

Seamus Coleman was given the Howard Kendall award as his 17 years of service comes to an end this weekend.

James Garner

Thomas Tuchel