Everton midfielder James Garner could be forced to play in a totally different position after a recent development.
James Garner has been brilliant this season and David Moyes has even urged Thomas Tuchel to have a look at him for England.
“He is an incredibly versatile player; we are very fortunate to have him,” Moyes said last month. “Actually, I got asked a question earlier about the England team and the players.
“I think if I was on the England staff, I would be keeping a close eye on Jimmy Garner, the way he is performing at the moment.”
Garner may now have to show that versatility once again following Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury setback.
Everton's James Garner.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
James Garner could be forced to play at right-back
Everton confirmed on Monday afternoon that Branthwaite will be required to undergo surgery this week after a complication in his recovery from a hamstring injury.
That means Moyes has just three centre-backs available, and one of them, Jake O’Brien, is currently plying his trade as a right-back.
O’Brien, however, has struggled at times in that role this season, and the consensus is that he should return to his most favoured role as a centre-back.
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That would then force Garner to move back to right-back, which is a role he has played in during his career.
In fact, the 24-year-old has previously won the European Championships with England’s under-21s as a right-back.
From Wirral to representing our #YoungLions at the #U21EURO finals 🏴
James Garner tells us his grassroots story:
— England (@England) June 30, 2023
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James Garner would give Everton more going forward than Jake O’Brien
Often, the criticism of O’Brien at right-back is his lack of attacking threat, which is understandable given his profile.
Garner would give Moyes’ side much more quality going forward, with his crossing ability one of the best in the squad.
James Garner’s game by numbers vs. Crystal Palace:
96% pass accuracy
70 total touches
9 defensive contributions
4 passes into the final third
3 attempted long passes
2 successful long passes
2 chances created
1 big chance created
A key part of this rejuvenated Everton… pic.twitter.com/VG6tQxt224
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) October 5, 2025
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Of course, that would leave a void in the midfield, but it’d give an opportunity to summer signing Merlin Rohl.
Rohl is yet to make his first start for the club since joining from Bundesliga outfit Freiburg, although he has been plagued by injury so far.