Everton midfielder James Garner is recovering from groin surgery and could miss the start of the 2026-27 Premier League season, according to reports from multiple outlets. The 25-year-old was not involved in last weekend’s pre-season friendly against Dundee and is now beginning rehabilitation at Everton’s Finch Farm facility. Everton are expected to bring him back to first-team training around the opening week of the new season, but his availability for the league opener remains uncertain.
The updates come after Everton drew 0-0 with Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, a match in which Jarrad Branthwaite returned to the starting lineup. While one report frames Garner’s status as a potential doubt for the season opener, both sources agree that surgery is the reason for his current absence and that his return timeline depends on the rehabilitation process.
