Everton midfielder James Garner has been recalled to the England national team ahead of the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures, following withdrawals due to injury and fitness concerns. Garner, 25, received the call-up shortly after arriving for a holiday in Bodrum, Turkey, cutting his break short to return and prepare for England’s matches against Spain, Czechia, and Croatia.

Garner first earned an England call-up in March and impressed during his international debut in the 1-1 draw with Uruguay at Wembley. England manager Thomas Tuchel likened him to Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde, dubbing him a “mini Valverde” for his versatility, work rate, and midfield intelligence. Garner welcomed the comparison, praising Valverde as one of the best midfielders in the world and describing him as underrated despite his growing reputation.

Despite his initial impact, Garner did not make the final squad for the recent World Cup, with Tuchel selecting Jordan Henderson and Kobbie Mainoo as backup midfielders. Garner said the disappointment only increased his determination and respect for the decision, viewing it as motivation to continue improving.

Garner’s club career has been marked by steady progression after leaving Manchester United’s academy. Unable to secure a first-team place at United—especially after their recruitment of midfield stars like Casemiro and Christian Eriksen—he embarked on loan spells at Watford and Nottingham Forest before signing for Everton in 2022 for a reported £9 million. He described the move as pivotal for his development, allowing him regular playing time and a chance to fight for a starting position.

A versatile player, Garner began his youth career as a centre-back before transitioning into midfield during a junior tournament. He has also featured as a right-back, notably for England’s under-21 team during their 2023 European Championship victory, where he was named in the tournament’s best XI and played in the final against Spain.

Tuchel included Garner as a late addition to England’s squad after withdrawals from key midfielders Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, with Henderson omitted on fitness grounds. Alongside Garner, Morgan Gibbs-White was also called back abruptly from a holiday in Dubai, although Garner declined to emulate Gibbs-White’s social media response, preferring a more understated approach.

Looking ahead, Garner expressed excitement about testing himself against Spain, highlighting the challenge of facing world-class opponents like Spanish midfielder Rodri. With experience at both club level and youth international tournaments, Garner aims to solidify his place in the senior England setup as the team prepares for their Nations League campaign.