Everton midfielder James Garner earned high praise following a standout performance in the goalless draw at Tottenham. Match of the Day pundit Thomas Frank lauded Garner's awareness, organisation, and crucial challenges on Spurs' expensive midfield duo Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. Former Everton defender Ashley Williams called him the ideal protective midfielder for a centre-back.

Signed for an initial £9m from Manchester United in 2022 after a promotion-winning loan at Nottingham Forest, Garner took two seasons to settle under Frank Lampard and Sean Dyche. The 2025-26 campaign became his watershed moment under David Moyes, playing all but six league minutes and spearheading a sustained European push. A commanding display and goal in a 2-0 win at Forest in December highlighted his growth.

Moyes noted Garner's transition from "a bit of a boy" into a "really good leader" taking responsibility. Data supports this: Garner ranked top at Everton for successful passes, tackles, interceptions, assists, and chances created. He notably stepped up after Jack Grealish's January injury, providing four of his seven assists thereafter. "I didn't realise probably how good he was," Moyes admitted.