Garner, who came up through Manchester United’s academy levels, left the club this summer to join Everton after Erik Ten Hag judged him surplus to requirements.
The 21-year-old defensive midfielder made his Toffees debut against his former club Manchester United on Sunday after coming off the bench in the 85th minute and almost scored an equaliser in the dying minute of the game
Lampard was impressed by what he saw from Garner against the Red Devils and believes that the 21-year-old handled the pressure of coming up against his former club very well.
The Everton boss praised the player for the personality he showed on Sunday and stressed that he has no doubt that Garner is a player for now and the future for the Toffees.
Lampard admitted that Garner will face competition for a place in the Everton midfield, but he is confident that the youngster is ready to handle that pressure.
When asked about his thoughts regarding Garner’s performance against Manchester United, Lampard said at a press conference: “Very impressed.
“To go up against your old team, the team you came through with, adds a bit of pressure.
“I thought it was good pressure for him because he came on and showed personality on the ball, passed it well, got a shot which was nearly going into the top corner.
“I have no doubt about James.
“He is a player for the now and for the future.
“There is competition in midfield, but he gives us something different and he is more than ready to play for us.”
Lampard’s side will travel to London to take on Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday and Garner will be eyeing a spot in the starting line-up against the north London outfit.
