JG
James Garner
Defensive Midfield / England / Everton FC
45 OVR
Profile
Key strength: Adaptability
Versatile player
As Everton languish in 12th place after a worrying LLDDL run, James Garner stands as a rare beacon of consistency in Sean Dyche's struggling side. The Manchester United academy graduate has been ever-present this season, amassing 31 appearances and an impressive 2,814 minutes of midfield service — remarkable durability that underscores his indispensability. While his modest 3 goals and 3 assists barely hint at his influence, the 25-year-old's true value lies deeper. Operating as a deep-lying playmaker alongside Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Garner's exceptional ball retention and passing range provide the progressive foundation Everton desperately need. Signed for €18 million in September 2022, he has since appreciated to a €25 million valuation — a testament to his composure and tactical maturity. Perhaps most telling: just 3 yellow cards across nearly 3,000 minutes. In a season of turbulence at Goodison Park, Garner offers something precious — certainty.