Wayne Rooney is convinced James Garner has shown enough for Everton to make England’s World Cup squad.
The 25-year-old finally received his England call-up last week following a mightily impressive 2025/26 campaign with Everton.
Garner has been the standout performer for the Blues this season, with David Moyes utilising his versatility by playing in numerous positions.
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James Garner of Everton reacts during the Premier League match between Everton and Brighton and Hove Albion at Hill Dickinson Stadium
Credit: Getty Images/Clive Mason.
The Everton midfielder needs a big final push to make the World Cup squad, but Rooney firmly believes the midfielder has what it takes.
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Wayne Rooney is backing James Garner to make England’s World Cup squad
Garner was delighted to learn of his England call-up ahead of the two international friendlies over the coming days.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, the former Everton forward spoke about Garner’s chances of making this summer’s World Cup squad.
Is James Garner good enough to be playing for England at the World Cup? 🏴
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ames Garner of Everton applauds during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton at Molineux.
Credit: Getty Images/Simon Stacpoole/Offside.
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“Yeah, he fully deserves to be in there and I think he’s been brilliant all season,” said Rooney.
“His attitude, you know, he’s playing right-back, midfield, his quality, his tackling, his passing, everything about his performances this season has been top class and fully deserves to be in it.
“And you know, I think he’ll be on the plane.”
Unfortunately, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s World Cup chances look slim, with the Everton summer signing not making the latest squad.
Garner will have two chances of playing for England as the Three Lions take on Uruguay on Friday evening and then Japan on Tuesday.
This is the final round of games before Tuchel will be forced to name his World Cup squad, which will put some pressure on Garner to perform if he is selected for either of the friendly game.
Everton fans will have their fingers crossed that Garner returns without any injury issue.
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