Moyes On Garner's Excellent Form & England Prospects

David Moyes says James Garner's impressive recent performances will help him get closer to a potential first call-up for England.

Garner has been in good form for the Blues this season both in midfield and at right-back. He played on the right in Everton's 2-0 win against Fulham last weekend, and is one of two ever-presents in the Toffees squad this season alongside centre-back James Tarkowksi.

Now in his fourth season at Everton, the 24-year-old is yet to win his first senior England cap, having represented the Three Lions at youth level all the way to the Under-21s and playing a key role as Lee Carsley’s side won the Under-21 European Championship in 2023.

Moyes says Garner, who has spoken recently of his international ambitions, faces stiff competition for one of those international midfield places, but that his current form will give him every chance of catching Thomas Tuchel's eye.

“He’s been fantastic since I came in,” said Moyes. “I didn’t realise probably how good he was. He’s been so good.

“He’s played great in midfield and he’s played full-back for me as well. I’ve said a couple of times recently he’s probably getting closer to getting talked about for England because of his performances.

“By the way, England have got so many good players to select from, so for anyone to select a team [is difficult]. I’ve been listening to discussions all week about (Phil) Foden and (Jude) Bellingham, etc., but all I’m saying is Jimmy is one of the group of young English midfield players who maybe in the future has a chance of getting a call-up.

“He’s done a brilliant job for us, Jimmy, and he’s playing very well.”

Jack Grealish is another pushing for a call-up to the England squad, having not appeared for his country since October 2024.

Moyes was also full of praise for the on-loan winger, who impressed again on Saturday and is the only player in the Premier League to have four assists and more than 20 chances created (24 in total).

“Jack has been really good. He’s helped us retain the ball more, up our numbers in terms of possession and his assists have been huge,” Moyes said.

“I’m driving home to him that it’s good being an assist-maker, but it’s even better being a goalscorer so I’m trying to get him to get on the goal sheet more often if possible.

“He’s given us a real strength in how he plays. Him and Ili Ndiaye have both played really well and helped us greatly, and probably changed a little bit the way we are.

“We wanted to evolve and try to become a better footballing team, and do lots of things better if we can. Both of those players give us an opportunity to be more like that. Jack’s an incredible character who loves his football, he watches and listens.

“Thomas Tuchel has a really difficult job with the quality of players he has to pick for England, but Jack wouldn’t let anybody down. He doesn’t give the ball away much, he’s very good at creating goals and playing.

“I think he’ll be close to the England squad, but whether he gets fully there, it’s not for me to make that decision.”