Everton: ‘Massive issue’ on cards at Goodison Park amid Jarrad Branthwaite injury update
Everton are facing a “massive issue” after Dominic Calvert-Lewin suffered yet another blow while Jarrad Branthwaite, Seamus Coleman and Nathan Patterson picked up knocks against Chelsea.
Sam Matterface explained that the injuries will provide yet another blow to the Toffees with Calvert-Lewin singled out for criticism.
The commentator explained that not only has the striker struggled in front of goal this season, but another injury blow alongside those to his teammates including Branthwaite will be an issue.
Speaking live on talkSPORT [16 April, 07:14], Matterface shared: “They’ve got a massive issue with Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Not only did he go through that very long period without scoring goals, he is injured again.
“It’s a hamstring injury, but they also picked up an injury to Patterson, an injury to Coleman and an injury to Branthwaite who is their best defender.”
Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jarrad Branthwaite cause Everton injury scare
Calvert-Lewin has remained the first-choice striker at Goodison Park despite his poor form this season and patchy history with injuries, and with Beto largely used as an impact sub, Dyche will have to turn to his second choice as he heads into the key stages of the season.
What worsens the issue is when all of the knocks begin to pile up. With Branthwaite, Patterson and Coleman all picking up injuries, the Toffees have been dealt a huge blow to their defence.
Having been forced off in the 6-0 defeat to Chelsea, the Liverpool Echo [17 April] reported that all three of the defenders look likely to miss the crucial relegation six-pointer against Nottingham Forest in a massive blow to their chances of victory.
Given Branthwaite’s importance to the team, in particular with his partnership alongside James Tarkowski, Dyche will surely miss his star man as they head into a crucial fixture off the back of a heavy defeat which dampened the mood.
In other Everton news, Branthwaite has been linked with a move to Manchester United.
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