The next few months will be huge for James Garner, as the Everton midfielder set his sights on going to the World Cup.
The star was called up to the squad for the first time for this international break and on Friday, he made his debut against Uruguay.
James Garner impressed at Wembley, and was named the Player of the Match.
What did you make of Jimmy’s England debut? 🏴
Get that man on the plane this summer! 🏆
James Garner makes his England debut vs Uruguay at Wembley Stadium.
Credit: Getty Images/Justin Setterfield
After the game, Thomas Tuchel likened him to Federico Valverde, who is one of the world’s best midfielders.
All of a sudden, James Garner is firmly in the conversation to go to the World Cup finals this summer, and taking any chance he gets against Japan tomorrow night will further boost his hopes.
But what do Alan Shearer and Micah Richards think?
Shearer and Richards issue Garner World Cup verdict
On the latest Rest Is Football podcast, Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards discussed all things England.
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They answered questions from fans, and someone asked what they made of Garner’s debut against Uruguay, and if he should actually go to the World Cup.
James Garner playing for England.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Shearer said: “I think he was one of the few who came out with credit in the game.
“He’s having a brilliant season, so I think he will go to the World Cup and I think he’s a very, very talented player.”
Richards added: “I love Garner. What’s his best position, you said he’s versatile, which is good for an England camp.
“For Everton this season, he’s been extraordinary. Everything, whether it’s tackles, passing, creativity, he’s just the main man in that midfield.
“So yes, I would take him. I think he’s good enough to play for England. Technically he’s good enough, and physically he can get around the pitch. So yeah, I would take him for sure, without a doubt.
Lineker suggested Garner could be the ‘alternative pivot’ to Elliot Anderson.
Garner has given himself a great chance
Garner had a solid debut against Uruguay which is exactly what he needed.
England now face Japan tomorrow night, and the starting XI will perhaps resemble the one that Tuchel goes with in the first group stage match against Costa Rica.
It is perhaps unlikely that Garner will start against Japan. But it will be vital for him to take any opportunity he gets, to further convince the manager that he’s worth taking this summer.
James Garner playing for England.
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Ideally, he’ll catch the eye again.
But the work won’t stop there for Garner. If he wants to make that final squad, he’ll need to ensure he continues shining for Everton through until the end of the season.
And Garner’s desire to make the final squad will surely serve as fuel, which can only be a good thing for Everton in their pursuit of European football.
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