The unheralded ex-Manchester United star with David Moyes’ backing for Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad – and the stats that back it up

Thierno Barry scored the only goal of the game to secure all three points for The Toffees as Tuchel watched on from the stands.

And now, Moyes believes that uncapped duo James Garner and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – both impressive in recent weeks – could also be in contention for a spot in the England squad.

“There are one or two of them who should be getting close,” Moyes told Sky Sports after being asked about a conversation he had with Thomas Tuchel following the full-time whistle.

“Let’s hope that maybe in the future they will do.

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“I think the likes of James Garner and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall have been doing brilliantly for us this year so long may that continue.

“I think it (the result) says a lot (about his Everton squad). I have been about the game long enough.

“To come here and get a result with what we have got available, and who we have missing more to the point, it’s some credit to the players.

“It is in the DNA at Everton, we have got something about us here where we can dig wins out when we need it.”

Is Moyes right?

Ex-Manchester United midfielder Garner was imperious during the win at Villa Park and would surely have impressed Tuchel.

The midfielder has been key to Everton’s success this season, helping the club into 10th place in the Premier League table.

Garner has the second-most interceptions in the league this term with 32, just seven behind Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo, who has 39, in first place.

The 24-year-old has also made the fourth-most tackles during the 2025/26 campaign with 64, just behind Joao Palhinha (74), Florentino (70), and Neco Williams (65).

Crucially, he is also in the top five for winning possession, having reclaimed the ball 114 times.

Those statistics suggest he could be an excellent option alongside or as back up to Elliot Anderson, especially if Tuchel wants to let Declan Rice off the leash this summer.

However, with huge names like Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers battling it out to be among England’s advanced midfielders, it will be tough to force his way in.

Can Grealish still make it?

Moyes may not have mentioned Grealish by name, but the Three Lions favourite is still knocking on the door despite being omitted from all of Tuchel’s England squads so far.

The playmaker is in the top three for most assists this season with six – one behind Rayan Cherki and three off Bruno Fernandes, who leads the pack.

He is also in the top five for chances created with 38, one behind former City teammate Jeremy Doku.

He could still be a surprise inclusion in this summer’s World Cup squad if he can produce a strong end to the season.

Data source: Opta