Everton: James Tarkowski shares new Jarrad Branthwaite prediction live on talkSPORT
Everton star James Tarkowski has made a new prediction surrounding Jarrad Branthwaite live on air, suggesting he’ll play for England “sooner rather than later”.
Tarkowski has formed a solid partnership with Branthwaite at the heart of the Toffees’ defence that has helped Sean Dyche’s side win their last three matches and climb out of the relegation zone following their 10-point deduction.
Gareth Southgate was in attendance to watch the 21-year-old keep a clean sheet against Chelsea at Goodison Park last time out and Tarkowski has suggested that it won’t be long until Branthwaite is lining up for the Three Lions senior side.
Speaking on talkSPORT (12 December, 9:22) he said: “Comfortably, comfortably and it wouldn’t surprise me if it happens sooner rather than later. You see him play and he’s got everything you need and he’s playing with an experienced head at such a young age.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if in the coming months and years if he’s in that squad.”
Won’t be long
Everton have a real gem on their hands currently and it’s not just the supporters and pundits who think so. It is clear from how Tarkowski speaks about Branthwaite that he genuinely believes that he has the ability to play at the absolute highest level.
He has been a revelation in the Toffees backline since breaking into the side earlier this season and the partnership he has formed with the 31-year-old ahead of Jordan Pickford has been the base from which Everton’s improved form has been built from.
If he maintains this form between now and the next international break in March, you would have to imagine that he would be deserving of a place in Southgate’s side for friendlies against Brazil and Belgium and if he impresses there he could well be on the plane to Germany.
England are not blessed with defensive options currently and Branthwaite has been one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League this season. If the Toffees continue to climb the table, there is no reason Southgate shouldn’t be calling upon the 21-year-old.
From an Everton point of view, it will likely only increase the amount of club eyeing a potential move for the defender, but on a more positive note, it should ensure the asking price for his services also increases.
in other Everton news, Richard Keys has sent a “legend” message to Sean Dyche following the Toffees win over Chelsea