Jarrad Branthwaite provides 'frustrating' Everton injury update and sends Sean Dyche clear message

Jarrad Branthwaite is adamant that he can make an impact for Everton after making a playing return from injury.

The centre-back enjoyed a magnificent 2023-24 campaign for the Toffees. Branthwaite made 41 appearances in all competition and scored three goals as he was voted the club’s Players’ Player and Young Player of the Season. He also earned a breakthrough into the England senior squad and was targeted by Manchester United in the transfer window.

Branthwaite required minor groin surgery at the start of the summer. His comeback has taken longer than initially expected and has missed Everton’s opening five Premier League games this term. The 22-year-old has been severely missed, with Sean Dyche’s side picking up just one point so far.

However, Branthwaite got a crucial outing under his belt as Everton under-21s defeated Sunderland 4-3 on Sunday. The ex-Carlisle defender played the entire 90 minutes, while Nathan Patterson - on the comeback from a hamstring issue - featured for an hour.

Branthwaite will now be hoping to thrust his way in Dyche’s plans - and is confident he can deliver when he returns to Everton’s line-up. Via evertontv, he said: “I’m thankful to be able to come down and play with the '21s, and obviously, get a win as well which is always nice on your return.

“It was a good game – entertaining. [It was] end-to-end, which is what I needed for my match fitness to get up to speed.

“That’s what today is for – to get out there, get my minutes, get my match fitness. There are still high-quality players out on the pitch, so it’s just about getting minutes and then taking it day by day.”

“I’ve I had to take my time and it’s obviously been frustrating. I would’ve loved to have been out there with the lads, but I just haven’t been able to do that, so I’ve been taking the time to come back stronger, so that when I do come back, I can make an impact.

“You’ve got to have full belief in your own ability, and I think after being out for such a long time – 14 or 15 weeks – it’s obviously going to be difficult getting back up to speed, but you’ve got to believe in yourself, and I do. I believe that when I get the chance to get back in the team, I’ll make an impact and help the team out.”