James Garner sends three-word message as Everton announce Brennan Johnson

Everton have announced the signing of Brennan Johnson, as Dwight McNeil joined Crystal Palace in a swap deal.

The Welshman endured a tough 2025-26 campaign after scoring the winner against Manchester United in the Europa League final the year before.

After arriving at Selhurst Park for £35million, the winger, with huge expectations on his shoulders, notched just two assists and scored zero goals.

Supporters are yet to be convinced by the deal this summer, with rivals arguing over which club is on the worst end of the player swap ahead of 2026-27.

Nonetheless, Johnson has revealed his excitement about joining David Moyes' squad in a transfer that seemingly came out of the blue just a few days ago.

He becomes the Toffees' fourth signing of the window, with Merlin Rohl's move being made permanent, and being joined by Hayden Hackney and Christian Norgaard.

Everton announce Brennan Johnson signing

Now that Johnson is officially an Everton player, supporters are ready to back him, wanting to show confidence in the new signing.

The reaction at the Hill Dickinson Stadium could have a huge impact on his confidence levels next season, and so too could his teammates.

James Garner has been one of the first players to welcome the 25-year-old to the club, writing on Instagram stories (11 August): "My brother, welcome!!" with a blue heart emoji.

The two already have an historic connection, having played together during Nottingham Forest's promotion-winning season in the 2021-22 season.

In that campaign, Johnson notched 18 goals and 10 assists in the Championship, while Garner boasted four goals and eight assists from midfield.

Have James Garner and Johnson ever linked up on the pitch?

This is certainly a contentious assist, if it were to be recorded as one, but it would appear that Johnson did provide a cross for a Garner goal.

During the 2021-22 season, Forest beat Peterborough United 2-0 at the City Ground, with Everton's now-midfield maestro tucking home.

Those at the Hill Dickinson Stadium will be hoping for more of that during 2026-27 campaign, and Garner will have license to roam forward as well.

Johnson will need a huge boost in numbers in front of goal if that is to happen, though. If there is a manager to get him firing again, it is likely Moyes.