Everton: BBC journalist raves about ‘accomplished’ Jarrad Branthwaite, makes 2024 prediction
Mike Hughes has raved about Jarrad Branthwaite and made a prediction for 2024 for the Everton defender.
Writing on the BBC Sport website on Wednesday (27 September, 04:57pm), the BBC Radio Merseyside journalist said it is a “long time” since he has seen a more composed 21-year-old centre-back.
He added that the England under-21 international is “accomplished” with both feet and anticipates that there will be interest in him in next year’s transfer windows.
“It’s a long time since I’ve seen a more composed 21-year-old centre-back,” said Hughes. “He reads the game exceptionally well, and that means it appears as if he always has time on the ball. He’s strong and determined in the tackle.
“He’s often described as a left-footed central defender – but he’s actually right-footed. However, he’s so accomplished with both feet that there is genuine belief that he’s left-footed.
“Branthwaite has all the qualities required to become a top-quality central defender. There were rumours of big-money offers for him during the summer and, make no mistake, there’ll be interest in him come the 2024 transfer windows.
“His best years are all in front of him. Branthwaite is not just talented – he’s a difference-maker.”
Impressive
It’s pretty clear that many people have been impressed by the performances of Branthwaite for Everton over the past few weeks.
The defender, who joined the club for £1million from Carlisle United in 2020, has long promised to become a big player for the Toffees.
But he hadn’t been given a proper run in the team until Sean Dyche handed him his opportunity against Wolves last month and he hasn’t lost his place in the lineup since then.
He has added a bit more composure at the back for the Blues and they are certainly defending much better with his presence in there alongside James Tarkowski.
If he keeps this form up, there will definitely be plenty of suitors taking a look at him, but the Merseysiders will do everything they can to try and ensure he is a big part of their future moving forward.
In other Everton news, the price of the takeover by 777 Partners could change depending on the outcome of a hearing.