Garner says leaving Man Utd for Everton was key to earning his England debut

James Garner believes his decision to leave Manchester United for Everton in 2022 was the defining move that unlocked his England career, admitting he would not be where he is today had he remained at Old Trafford.

The 23-year-old spent 13 years in United’s academy system after joining at under-eight level, but managed only seven senior appearances for the club and was sent out on loan three times — to Watford and twice to Nottingham Forest — before making a permanent switch to Everton.

“I think it was the perfect thing for me to do,” Garner said. “I am a big believer that everything happens for a reason. When I left they signed three or four midfielders, world class ones. Had I stayed I wouldn’t have been where I am today so I am more than happy that I did.”

Since arriving at Goodison Park, Garner has become a cornerstone of Everton’s midfield, making 125 appearances and scoring five goals. That consistency earned him his first England cap earlier this year and has now seen him named in Thomas Tuchel’s latest Nations League squad as a replacement following the withdrawals of five players, including Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo.

The call-up arrived at a particularly inconvenient moment. Garner had just flown to Turkey on holiday during the extended international break when his phone rang. “It was a very short holiday,” he said. “I had literally just got into my hotel room and I got the call. That’s not an over exaggeration either. I came back the day after. I slept, had the morning in the sun and left.”

Garner said the willingness to embrace discomfort — whether on loan or in a permanent move — has been central to his development. “I’ve never been shy of going into a more uncomfortable place,” he said. “I didn’t just want to fizzle into the background and just sit on the bench. I wanted to go into a team where I felt like I had a chance to fight for my position and that’s what I have done in the past three or four years.”