Everton: Jarrad Branthwaite receives England boost as ‘huge’ injury news drops today
Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi has suffered a knee injury which is expected to keep him out for eight weeks, which may come as a boost to Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
The Daily Mail reported via their website on 28 February that the injury will come as a “huge” blow to England, with Guehi having made himself a regular under Gareth Southgate.
However, with the form Branthwaite has shown at Goodison Park so far this season, this injury may have come at the perfect time to boost his chances of an international opportunity.
Could Jarrad Branthwaite be handed an England call-up?
For a long time, Harry Maguire and John Stones have been recognised as the first-choice starting pair in Southgate’s side, but Maguire’s form and Stones’ injuries have opened the door for at least one new option to push their way into the team.
Guehi has often been that man, representing England on nine occasions since his first call-up in 2022, but Branthwaite will be looking to put pressure on his position after his performances in Sean Dyche’s team.
His performances have been such that the likes of Real Madrid have been linked with a big-money move, while plenty have suggested he should take Guehi’s place on the plane regardless of prior experience in Southgate’s squads.
Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa was also named in the most recent international squad but has also suffered a long-term injury blow which has ruled him out of the upcoming friendlies.
If Branthwaite does get his call-up, he will need to impress Southgate to make himself a mainstay in the squad with both Guehi and Konsa looking likely to return ahead of the European Championships.
Southgate is set to name his squad for the friendly clashes against Brazil and Belgium on 14 March, with Branthwaite now seemingly in contention for a place.
In other Everton news, Sam Allardyce has hit out at the Premier League.
For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.