Everton star James Garner in an England shirt
Everton star James Garner in an England shirt
The Blues ace replaced Alex Scott in the 70th minute of the UEFA Nations League A group clash.
The game was already decided by time the Hill Dickinson Stadium ace entered the pitch at the Stadion HNK.
Thomas Tuchel's side secured a rout with goals from Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, Bukayo Saka and Morgan Rogers.
Garner was part of the first batch of substitutes, and came on alongside Rogers who scored the seventh.
The English media reacted well to the four-cap ace's performance in the drubbing despite its short nature.
How did the English media say about James Garner in England win?
Garner did not have much to do when he was brought on, but he did what he had to, well.
The BBC handed him a six out of 10 rating, saying: "Some strong challenges and kept it simple."
The Daily Express also gave him that rating, saying: "Plenty of energy in the middle of the park for his late cameo."
Sportbible agreed, saying: “Deployed as a left-back by Tuchel after replacing Alex Scott.
"Like the rest of England’s defence, didn’t have a great deal to do.”
The verdict on Garner was unanimous with sixes all around, which just shows how consistent that he is.
That could be a big asset for Tuchel going forward, and one aspect of his display will be a big positive for David Moyes after what has happened this week.
Why Garner's England display can benefit Everton
Vitalii Mykolenko picked up an injury on international duty with Ukraine.
That could provide Moyes with an issue, as his other recognised left-back, Adam Aznou, is out on loan with Malaga.
Garner was shoehorned into that role when he came on for his national team, and he may be required to do the same at club level when he returns to action.
The Toffees man had 23 touches in the contest, with a 94 per cent pass completion, per FotMob data.
He made two defensive contributions, with one tackle and one interception in his brief cameo.
Garner also won the only ground duel that he attempted against Slaven Bilic's side.
That data shows that he can step up when in an unfamiliar role, and could be a blessing for the Merseysiders ahead of their clash with Hull City.
He may have to play in the same position as he played for his country in that clash.