David Ornstein says if Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite will make England squad
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite will receive his first senior international call-up for England’s March international fixtures, according to David Ornstein.
The Athletic journalist reported on Thursday (14 March) that the 21-year-old centre-back will be part of Gareth Southgate’s squad for fixtures against Brazil and Belgium having been a regular part of Sean Dyche’s side this season.
England will face Brazil on 23 March and Belgium on 26 March, with both matches being played at Wembley Stadium as Branthwaite looks to make a mark on Southgate’s squad ahead of this summer’s European Championships.
Writing on X, Ornstein said: “Jarrad Branthwaite expected to earn a first call-up to England senior squad for Brazil + Belgium games. Selection would reward 21yo Everton left-sided centre-back for excellent progress in key position.”
Will Everton gem Jarrad Branthwaite receive an England call-up?
In a difficult season for Everton, Branthwaite has been one of the shining lights in Dyche’s squad, with his impressive defensive performances far beyond what anyone expected of the 21-year-old in his first Premier League season.
Alongside James Tarkowksi, the centre-back has formed an excellent defensive partnership that has helped the Toffees climb out of the dropzone this season and boosted their hopes of remaining in the Premier League.
England aren’t blessed with many left-sided centre-back options at this moment in time and that could open the door for Branthwaite to make his mark on Southgate’s squad against both Belgium and Brazil this month.
From Everton’s point of view, they will be hoping their centre-back returns to Goodison Park fit and healthy following the international break as he still has a major role to play as Dyche’s team look to secure their place in the Premier League for another year.
Then there is the small matter of keeping him on Merseyside beyond the summer transfer window.
In other Everton news, Simon Jordan has shared a new relegation verdict live on talkSPORT after Luton’s defeat to Bournemouth
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