NBC Sports pundit Robbie Earle hails ‘outstanding’ Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite
NBC Sports pundit Robbie Earle was full of praise for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, labelling him “outstanding” following the victory against Brentford.
Earle named Branthwaite as his underappreciated performer of the week, praising his ability technically, physically and mentally, and claiming he is still improving all the time under Sean Dyche and playing next to James Tarkowski.
He also stated that the 21-year-old will be one of Everton’s most important players this season, praising his loan spell at PSV as it helped him improve both as a player and as a man.
Speaking on The 2 Robbies Podcast on NBC Sports YouTube channel, Earle stated: “I’m going to go for Jarrad Branthwaite. He’s 21 years of age, he went to PSV on loan to go and play some football.
“I think they [Everton] felt like going to another country would mature him as a player and as a man, I think that is the case and they’re really happy with the progress he’s made.
“He’s quick over the ground, he’s left-footed, he’s got a good temperament about him, he’s improving all the time, and there’s already talk of people like Manchester United having a look at him. I think he’s learning from Tarkowski, who’s really improved and has always been a bit of a leader and will defend for his life.
“In a side where, you remember the days where it was [Mason] Holgate, [Conor] Coady and [Ben] Godfrey, they’ve had centre-backs all over the place, some have gone, some are not in form, Branthwaite’s come in and done an outstanding under-the-radar job.
“He’s a young player who if you can keep an eye on and if he can maintain a partnership, is going to be as important for Everton as anybody else in that squad.”
Stepping up at a crucial time
Branthwaite has been one player who has really stepped up so far this season, turning in impressive performances whenever he’s been called upon, and has now cemented his place in Dyche’s plans after starting the last four Premier League games alongside Tarkowski.
That centre-back partnership will prove to be key in Everton’s bid for survival, with a strong defensive structure the preferred style under the boss, and two players at the heart of it who will turn in consistently strong performances.
Branthwaite especially will see this season as his big opportunity to make a name for himself on the biggest stage, with his experience winning the Dutch Cup with PSV lending itself to his game.
Tarkowski was full of praise for his defensive partner [via the Liverpool Echo] after their showing against Brentford and claimed he could go “to the very top” of the game, as the praise continues to pile on the 21-year-old this season.
In other Everton news, a first-team debut could be on the cards for one new Everton signing.