Fresh from his maiden England call-up, James Garner once again impressed as Everton beat Chelsea in the Premier League at Hill Dickinson Stadium
James Garner impressed as Everton beat Chelsea on Saturday night
James Garner impressed as Everton beat Chelsea on Saturday night(Image: (Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images))
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James Garner was only too pleased to admit he had just enjoyed the dream end to a week following a whirlwind few days. Garner was informed by Thomas Tuchel on FaceTime on Thursday that he was going to be included in his first-ever England senior squad for the friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan later this month.
Official confirmation came on Friday morning, and then just over 24 hours later, the midfielder once again impressed as his Everton side boosted their chances of European qualification while denting Chelsea's hopes of securing Champions League football next season.
Chelsea were out-fought and out-thought in a chastening experience at Hill Dickinson Stadium, which was rocking long before the game got underway.
James Garner celebrated his first Three Lions call-up with a pin-point assist for the important opening goal in the 3-0 victory, which saw Beto coolly dink the ball over the onrushing Robert Sanchez.
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Chelsea then had multiple efforts blocked before Jordan Pickford produced yet another wonder save to deny Enzo Fernandez and ensure Everton headed into the break ahead.
Liam Rosenior’s side would have moved into fourth place in the Premier League with a victory, but another howler from Sanchez presented the Blues and Beto with their second of the game just after the hour mark.
As a result of his brace, the forward became the first Everton player to score more than once in a game this season before Iliman Ndiaye curled a shot into the top corner to cap off a night to remember for David Moyes’ men.
“Yes, couldn't have asked it to go any better really,” Garner admitted. “To top it off with a win and a nice little assist was perfect.
Beto celebrates scoring his second goal during the match between Everton and Chelsea at Hill Dickinson Stadium on March 21, 2026
Beto celebrates scoring his second goal during the match between Everton and Chelsea at Hill Dickinson Stadium on March 21, 2026(Image: Gary Oakley/Everton FC Official Photography Library/SmartFrame)
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“I think it's a bit of a cliche, but it really is every little boy's dream, and it's finally come. It's been quite a crazy week, but I'm really happy.”
Garner has represented England at every youth level and was part of the under-21s side that won the Euros in 2023, but he admits it is going to be a totally different 'ballgame' joining up with Tuchel’s senior squad.
“It's a completely different ballgame, I think,” he said. “It'll be a little bit daunting, of course. It's my first time. But I’m just going to be myself, and I’m hoping to impress.”
Although Garner is out to impress, he has no plans to change his approach, saying: “Just how I’ve approached the whole season. Just be myself, be positive and we'll see what happens. I'm just going to go in with a positive mindset and just be myself.
“I think getting called up to England speaks for itself. It's definitely been the best part of my career so far. I'm just trying to help in every single way possible. If I'm helping defensively, then I'll help. If I can help with assisting goals, then I can try (that).”
James Garner in action for Everton against Chelsea
James Garner in action for Everton against Chelsea(Image: (Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images))
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And while Everton supporters dream of European football next season, Garner has also set his sights on securing a place in Tuchel's World Cup squad.
"I don't see why not," he replied when asked if he is allowing himself to dream of going to the World Cup. "I think it's a possibility, but at the same time I've just got to keep on focusing on what I'm doing on the weekend. If I keep on playing like that, then who knows."
Before he concluded: "I think anybody who gets called up for England has to be at the level; otherwise, they wouldn't be called up. Especially for a nation like this.
"I think a lot of people think that England should be there or thereabouts in the World Cup. So to even get a call-up is such an amazing achievement, and I'm just so proud to be there."