SpotlightThe GuardianUnverified source· 24 Sept 2026
Garner embraces 'mini-Valverde' tag ahead of Spain test
Thomas Tuchel called him a 'mini Valverde' after his England debut, and now James Garner is eager to prove it against Spain.
J. Garner
player
Age
24
Position
Midfielder
Club
Everton
Nationality
English
What happened. James Garner received a late call-up to the England squad for the Nations League match against Spain on Saturday. The Everton midfielder is keen to live up to the 'mini-Valverde' tag given by manager Thomas Tuchel after his debut against Uruguay in March.
- Tuchel compared Garner to Federico Valverde after his England debut in a 1-1 draw with Uruguay.
- Garner can play in central midfield, at right-back, or on the wing.
- He is eager to test himself against Spain in the Nations League on Saturday.
“It’s a very good comparison”
— James Garner
Garner will look to impress against Spain and solidify his place in the England squad.
Read the full story at The Guardian →
EnglandMore to read
The Guardian
Defensive flux gives Tuchel headache but Alexander-Arnold could be remedy | Jacob Steinberg
Football Espana
Jude Bellingham’s World Cup haul earns second England award
GiveMeSport
One That Got Away: Man Utd Surely Regret Letting James Garner Leave
Mirror Football
Jude Bellingham only knows how to play one way - he and England must embrace it
