Sean Dyche was amazed by James Garner’s performance against Aston Villa.
Speaking to evertontv, the Everton boss admitted that Garner has been ‘terrific’ after he scored his first goal since joining the club over a year ago.
The Toffees picked up their third win of the campaign in all competitions on Wednesday evening, beating a very poor Aston Villa side to reach the fourth round of the Carabao Cup for the first time in three years.
Everton fielded arguably a full strength team and travelled to Villa Park to take on a starting XI that only lacked a few key player such as Ollie Watkins and Boubacar Kamara.
The latter was eventually brought on and scored the host’s consolation, though Garner and Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s earlier goals proved enough to claim the victory.
Garner’s impressive opener was his first since netting for Nottingham Forest in the Championship in April 2022, though it capped off another brilliant display from the midfielder.
Garner has started all but one of Everton’s Premier League games this season and has clearly caught the eye of Dyche, who was quick to praise him last night.
“I think he’s been terrific and he’s had to adapt,” Dyche said. “I have said many times that himself and these guys are learning about what they can do all the time.
“He can be adaptable, he can play in a number of different positions. Massive credit to him and I thought he was very very good again tonight.”
The James Garner and Amadou Onana link-up could be Everton’s saviour
James Garner was allowed to return to his natural position in central midfield at Villa Park, with Jack Harrison finally making his debut on the wing after being sidelined since his loan move from Leeds United.
While the 22-year-old’s versatility has been very handy for Sean Dyche, fans will be very excited to see him thrive alongside Amadou Onana after the two linked up beautifully for the first half goal.
The pair have a brilliant opportunity to shine and run the midfield in what should be two very winnable games against Luton Town and Bournemouth.
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