In a campaign where Everton have needed resilience, intelligence and a touch of invention, James Garner has stepped forward with presence and poise. His performances in blue have been among the most convincing of his career, guiding midfield battles and offering defensive assurance when asked to fill in at right-back. Four Four Twos recent interview captured the midfielder at a crossroads, reflecting on growth, ambition and a future that now feels intriguingly open.
Garners influence has been clear across every Premier League outing. The Toffees have leaned on his versatility, and his consistency has led David Moyes to champion him for England recognition. The Everton manager remarked, Hes been fantastic since I came in. I didnt realise probably how good he was. Hes been so good. Those words underline how indispensable Garner has become at Everton.
Photo: IMAGO
Interest from elsewhere was inevitable. Newcastle United, reshaping their squad with homegrown depth, have been linked. Former club Manchester United have been mentioned too, a reminder of the midfielders roots and a potential twist in the story. Four Four Two noted that his contract expires this summer, and the player himself did little to clear the fog.
Garner admitted, All I know at the moment [is] nothings going [on]. Theres been no talks. I know, obviously, my contracts up in the summer but from my side, Ive heard nothing. It is a curiously quiet situation given his relevance, yet it reflects the broader uncertainty at Everton, where long-term planning has been anything but straightforward.
Away from negotiations, Garner sounded grounded and focused. Im enjoying my football, of course. Its been a great start to the season for the club, and Ive started quite well myself. I just need to keep on improving, keep on winning games and add a little bit more. His words suggest a player intent on progression rather than distraction.
Photo IMAGO
England remains a goal too. The midfielder understands the competition for places under Thomas Tuchel and the need for statistics to strengthen his case. I feel Ive got the quality to play in the team, he said. I just need to show it on a more regular basis. Todays game, unfortunately, is all about statistics. I need to go out there and get some stats to myself, goals, assists.
It is a measured assessment from a player whose Under-21 pedigree, including a place in the UEFA Team of the Tournament, hints at untapped potential.
Evertons upcoming match at Old Trafford, where Garner made his earliest senior appearances, feels symbolic. It offers a chance to showcase maturity, leadership and growth in front of the club that once shaped him. Moyes summed it up aptly: Hes played great in midfield and hes played full-back for me as well. Ive said a couple of times recently hes probably getting closer to getting talked about for England because of his performances.
Whether his future lies on Merseyside or elsewhere, Garner approaches this moment with clarity, ambition and the calm of someone who knows his game is evolving fast.
Garner has been one of the most reliable figures in a squad that has often struggled for rhythm, and seeing him discussed as a transfer target for clubs with stronger financial power sets off familiar alarms. Fans have seen influential players depart before, and the thought of another key figure leaving, especially one who has embraced the clubs challenges, feels uncomfortable.
At the same time, there is a real sense of appreciation for how far Garner has come. His work rate, tactical awareness and willingness to play different roles have been essential components of Evertons better performances this season. Supporters know that versatility of this kind is rare, and losing it would deepen the rebuild required in midfield.
What troubles fans most is the contract situation. The lack of movement or communication described by Garner will make supporters fear that the club could drift into another preventable departure. After the stability shown by renewing deals for senior figures like Jordan Pickford and James Tarkowski, there is an expectation that Garner should be next on the list.
Evertonians want commitment, structure and ambition. Seeing Garner talk with such professionalism only strengthens the belief that the club must act decisively. If Everton are to move forward, they cannot allow one of their most dependable young players to walk away without making every possible effort to secure his future.