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James Garner has committed his future to Everton by signing a new and improved contract at the club that runs until 2030.
The 24-year-old, whose existing terms were set to expire this summer if the Blues failed to take up an option to extend his stay by a further 12 months, has been rewarded for his stellar form this season.
Garner has become an integral part of Everton’s midfield and was attracting interest from elsewhere, with clubs from the Premier League and Italy said to be monitoring his contract situation.
“I’m really excited to commit my future to Everton, Birkenhead-born Garner said after putting pen to paper on his new deal. “I’m very grateful for all the support and all the love I’ve had over the past three-and-a-half years, but it’s just the start.
“I’ve seen the progress we’ve made recently. Now I want to be part of that progress and get us back to where the Club deserves to be.
“The aim this season is to get into Europe,” he continued. “That’s what us, as a club – and us as players and staff – should be aiming for. Nothing less.
“I think that’s very achievable, and that’s what we want for the next season and the seasons after that.
“I’m still only 24. I feel like I’ve been through a lot of experiences. I want to keep improving. I think the obvious one would be goals and assists, which is the one everyone wants to get better at.
“As well as that, I want to keep that overall consistency, and be a player who people can look to as a leader, setting the right examples.
“The manager has really trusted me – and what he asks of me to do on a game day, it suits exactly how I play. He’s been really important since he’s come in.”
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