No first-team players ended up leaving Everton in the mid-season transfer window.
After lots of speculation, David Moyes’ squad has emerged intact although at one point it really looked like Dwight McNeil would depart.
Everton News columnist Alan Myers Q&A session on TalkingPoints.
Credit: GRV Media
McNeil’s proposed move to Crystal Palace collapsed at the eleventh hour, in one of the most dramatic transfer stories in recent times.
Other players like Adam Aznou, Nathan Patterson and Tim Iroegbunam were also linked with exits.
In the end though, nobody departed and Moyes will now hope the squad – which received one new addition in the form of Tyrique George – can make a fist of the second half of the season.
Deadline day is now done… what’s your thoughts, Toffees? 😬
What more could have been done? 🫣
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And one man who’ll surely play a key part is James Garner, whose recent signing of a new contract was perhaps as big as any transfer for Everton.
With the window having just closed, an interesting claim has been made about the midfielder.
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Aston Villa considered move for Everton star James Garner
According to The Athletic, Garner was on Aston Villa’s radar towards the end of the transfer window.
Of course, as recently as a couple of weeks ago, Garner only had six months left on his contract, as the club sought to tie him down to a new deal.
Villa apparently genuinely considered trying to sign Garner amid his uncertain future.
James Garner ahead of playing for Everton.
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It’s stated that sources close to the player were aware of Villa’s internal admiration for him. But ultimately, Everton were able to reach an agreement with Garner – who also had interest from AC Milan – to extend his contract.
Villa would go on to sign Douglas Luiz on loan for their midfield.
Garner has been one of the standout players this season for Everton, and so, it was vital that the club reached an agreement to extend his contract.
Garner’s new contract was so vital for Everton
Garner – who James Tarkowski recently branded ‘outstanding’ – has potentially been Everton’s best player this season.
He has taken his game to a new level this term, and showcased both offensive and defensive attributes.
Is James Garner good enough to be playing for England at the World Cup? 🏴
Thomas Tuchel has not called him up to a squad yet…
ames Garner of Everton applauds during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton at Molineux.
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Garner was recently shown to be outperforming several English rivals for combined tackles, interceptions and chances created, and calls have been made for him to get a first England call-up next month.
If there’s any justice he’ll get that call-up from Thomas Tuchel, who was present at Villa Park recently to observe his fine performance against Villa.
But for Everton, it was simply huge that they were able to tie him down, given what they stood to lose.
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