James Garner returns to England and targets Spain in Nations League

James Garner, the Everton midfielder, is back in the England squad as a late call-up after withdrawals, and he wants to test himself against Spain in the Nations League on Saturday.

The “mini-Valverde” label dates back to March, when England manager Thomas Tuchel watched Garner impress on his international debut against Uruguay (a 1-1 draw at Wembley). Garner fully embraces the comparison: “It’s a very good comparison.” He can operate in central midfield like Valverde, but he’s also able to play right-back or on the wing.

Garner also explained what happened earlier in the year when he missed out: Tuchel said he had only a certain number of places available, and that Garner’s name wasn’t included. “I respect his decision and it just makes you hungrier,” he said.

For these Nations League fixtures, Rice and Mainoo are out, Henderson remains in the midfield picture, and Anderson stands as the most established option. After Spain at Wembley, England visit Czechia and Croatia, then return to Wembley to face Czechia again.