Everton: Gareth Southgate gets it wrong as Jarrad Branthwaite left out of England starting XI
Gareth Southgate has got his decision horribly wrong to leave Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite out of the England starting lineup against Belgium on Tuesday (26 March).
The 21-year-old received his first call-up to the Three Lions senior side for this international break following his impressive form at Goodison Park.
The centre-back is still waiting to make his debut after being left on the bench in his country’s 1-0 defeat against Brazil on Saturday (23 March).
Many people were expecting to see the defender named in the starting lineup against Belgium to allow Southgate to get a better look at him, but he once again finds himself on the bench.
It appears as though Brighton captain Lewis Dunk, who came on as a substitute against Brazil, is currently ahead of him in the pecking order after he has replaced Harry Maguire in the starting lineup.
The Three Lions confirmed on their official Twitter page that Jordan Pickford will start in goal, with Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Dunk and Ben Chilwell making up the back four.
Declan Rice will be partnered in midfield by Kobbie Mainoo, while Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Jarrod Bowen and Ivan Toney will occupy the attacking positions.
It’s staggering that Branthwaite is once again being left on the bench given that several fringe players are being handed the opportunity to impress.
What is the point in him being there if Southgate isn’t going to play him? While he may get on in the second half, that isn’t going to be enough time for him to stake his claim with the European Championships just around the corner.
You have to think that his chances of making the tournament have been dealt a huge blow by not being named in the starting lineup as it suggests the Three Lions boss doesn’t quite think he’s ready.
But if that is the case, then he couldn’t be more wrong after he’s been superb since forcing his way into the Toffees starting lineup earlier this season.
That has been backed up by the fact several elite clubs across the Premier League and Europe are believed to be keeping a close eye on his progress.
It will no doubt be disappointing for the defender to find himself amongst the substitutes again, but he will be hoping to get a run out in the second half at Wembley.
In other Everton news, Moshiri was left without £200million paperwork to sign as a PSR blunder has emerged.
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