- James Tarkowski: Current vice-captain and vocal leader at the back.
- Jordan Pickford: A seasoned, rarely-injured England international.
- James Garner: 25-year-old dark horse and energetic fan-favourite.
With the season’s end imminent and Seamus Coleman’s 17-year career at the club drawing to a close, Everton face an important decision: Who should next claim the captain’s armband?
Having been club captain since 2019, and one of the strongest personalities at the club, Coleman’s departure from the playing squad creates a massive leadership void in the dressing room. As the Toffees transition to a post-Coleman era, here is a look at the top contenders.
James Tarkowski: Natural successor?
The most seemingly obvious choice to take the role permanently is James Tarkowski. Serving as the squad’s vice-captain, the ever-present centre-back has frequently led the team onto the pitch during Coleman’s multiple injury absences in recent seasons.
Tarkowski commands respect through his robust style of play and vocal guidance from the back. However, now aged 33 and with signs this season that his performances might be on the wane, is he the right long-term choice?
This is particularly relevant considering the club is looking to younger defensive talents, specifically Jarrad Branthwaite and Jake O’Brien, to be Everton’s central defensive partnership. Everton have just spent several seasons without their club captain on the pitch. Is that something the club really wants to repeat?
Jordan Pickford: Reliable keeper
Should guaranteed playing time dictate the decision, Jordan Pickford emerges as a strong alternative. The England international is one of the longest-serving figures at the club, possesses a guaranteed starting spot, and is rarely injured.
- Experience: Over 300 Premier League appearances for the Toffees.
- Maturity: Has evolved from a fiery young keeper into a composed professional.
- Influence: Is never short of a strong word or shout of encouragement.
While early in his Everton career his temperament might have questioned his suitability for the armband, Pickford has matured into a vital leader. His extensive top-flight experience and longevity make him an ideal candidate to provide stability during this period of transformation.
James Garner: Captain for Everton’s future?
Alternatively, if the club is looking for a more left-field choice, specifically with an eye to the future, then James Garner could emerge as an option.
Garner has shown maturity and an exceptional work ethic since arriving at the club, making him a dark horse for the role. He’s had a standout season, has caught the eye of the England manager, and is a tireless performer. At 25, the choice of Garner, while potentially risky, would also be an investment for the future.
New era of leadership at Hill Dickinson
Replacing a legend like Seamus Coleman is no easy task, and Davis Moyes faces an unenviable choice. Handing the armband to James Tarkowski offers continuity, while Jordan Pickford provides seasoned, consistent leadership from the back.
However, if the Toffees want to truly signal a fresh start in this new era at Hill Dickinson, appointing James Garner could be the forward-thinking statement the club needs. Whatever choice is made, the one guarantee is that whoever takes the mantle, they will have massive shoes to fill.
