James Garner Gets First England Senior Call-Up

Everton midfielder James Garner earned his first call-up to England's senior national team on Friday, joining manager Thomas Tuchel's squad for upcoming friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan. The 25-year-old, who has not represented the senior side since his time with the triumphant Under-21 team at the 2023 European Championship, could make his debut when England hosts Uruguay on Friday or Japan four days later. The games form part of the team's preparations for the 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Garner's selection rewards a standout season at Everton, where he has emerged as a versatile and consistent performer in midfield and occasionally at right back. After joining from Manchester United in September 2022, he faced setbacks including two serious back injuries and the club's struggles near the Premier League relegation zone in his first three years. This campaign, however, marked a turning point. With a new contract until 2030 and the team settled in its state-of-the-art Hill Dickinson Stadium, Garner approached the season with renewed determination.

"I told myself at the start of the season that this has to be the season I show...