Everton: James Garner underwent groin surgery and could fail to start
According to Sports.
Context
James Garner, a 25-year-old midfielder, is a key player in Everton's squad and his absence could force coach David Moyes to adjust his strategy. With the return of Jarrad Branthwaite and the integration of other players, Everton are working to find the best formation before the start of the Premier League.
Why this matters
James Garner's absence at the start of the 2026/27 Premier League could have a significant impact on Everton's dynamics, especially considering his importance in midfield. His recovery will be crucial for the team to be able to compete effectively from the start of the season, as the club seeks to improve its performance compared to the previous season.
Main conclusions
- Everton: James Garner underwent groin surgery and may fail to start.
- James Garner underwent groin surgery and could miss the start of the 2026/27 season; Everton drew 0-0 at Bolton, with Jarrad Branthwaite back in the eleven.
- Garner recovering from groin surgery as Everton draw at Bolton - Yahoo Sports.
James Garner has undergone groin surgery and could miss the start of the 2026/27 Premier League. The 25-year-old Everton midfielder, who had already missed last weekend's friendly against Dundee, has now begun the rehabilitation process at Finch Farm. According to the club, the English international is expected back to work with the rest of the squad around the start week of the new season, depending on clinical developments.
The medical update was shared after Saturday's goalless draw at Bolton Wanderers, a pre-season meeting that marked the return of Jarrad Branthwaite to the Toffees' starting eleven. The central defender, absent since April, was part of a five-man defense redesigned by David Moyes, alongside James Tarkowski, Jake O’Brien, Adam Aznou and Merlin Röhl, in an important test to gain routines before the official start of the competitions.
The first half had a shocking moment when Thierno Barry even placed the ball in the opponent's goal, but the move was promptly disallowed for offside. At half-time, Moyes changed five pieces, introducing Tom King, Michael Keane, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Vitalii Mykolenko and Tyrique George to give the group minutes and rotation. In the second half, Beto had the best opportunity for Everton, but the striker's shot went wide of the hosts' goal, keeping the score goalless until the final whistle.
In the final minutes, five members of Everton's under-21 team were on the field, a sign that the focus of the pre-season is on giving the entire squad a competitive rhythm and observing internal solutions. The Liverpool Blues' next test is scheduled for Tuesday, July 28, at 7:45 pm (UK time), against Stoke City. For that game, winger Tyler Dibling, absent from Bolton due to a minor injury, should be available, as will summer signing Hayden Hackney.
Garner's condition will be closely monitored in the coming weeks. Despite the optimism regarding a return to training by the time of the first round, load management and respect for recovery deadlines will be decisive in avoiding relapses. In the preparation phase and with several tests on the calendar, Everton is looking to consolidate processes, reintegrate key players like Branthwaite and ensure that the team enters the new season with as many competitive solutions as possible, even if, immediately, it cannot count on an influential midfielder like Garner.
Remember that the draw against Bolton comes after the friendly against Dundee, at a stage in which David Moyes' men are fine-tuning tactical and physical details with a view to the kick-off of the 2026/27 Premier League. The positive evolution of injured players and the integration of new elements will be critical points for a consistent start for the Goodison Park team.
What happens next
Garner has begun the rehabilitation process at Finch Farm and is expected to return to training in the opening week of the new season, depending on his clinical progress. Meanwhile, Everton continue to prepare for the new season, testing different formations and players during pre-season games, as evidenced in the recent draw with Bolton Wanderers.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to James Garner?
James Garner underwent groin surgery.
Who confirmed James Garner's surgery?
Everton confirmed James Garner's surgery.
Why is James Garner having surgery now?
The surgery was performed after Garner missed a friendly game due to injury.
What changes are expected for the Everton team?
James Garner could miss the start of the 2026/27 Premier League, depending on his recovery.
What was the result of the game between Everton and Bolton Wanderers?
The game ended in a goalless draw.