Marcel Brands reveals Gareth Southgate conversation on Everton ace Jarrad Branthwaite
Marcel Brands has revealed what Gareth Southgate told him in private about Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
The England head coach shared that he had been impressed with the performances of the 21-year-old this season.
Southgate even handed Branthwaite his England debut call up in March 2024, but he still has to make a senior appearance for the Three Lions.
Brands, the former Toffees director of football, told the Liverpool Echo: “He’s already made it into the England squad. I spoke to Gareth Southgate a couple of months ago when he was at PSV’s game against Ajax to watch Jordan Henderson and he told me he was impressed by Jarrad’s performances.
“It’s great to see him fulfilling his huge potential because he’s a great kid from a great family with good parents who support him in the right way. I’m very happy for him and also for Everton because he will be a very valuable player in the near future.”
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite has to be in the England EURO squad
Branthwaite has arguably been the standout English centre-back in the Premier League this season, showcasing remarkable talent and consistency.
His impact at Everton has been immense, as evidenced by his defensive prowess, which has contributed significantly to the team’s performance.
The 21-year-old has been exceptional in the air coupled with his ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions, places him among the elite defenders in the league.
Despite not making his senior debut for the England national team yet, Branthwaite’s inclusion in the squad for the upcoming Euro would be well-deserved.
His left-footedness is a distinct advantage when playing out from the back, adding an extra dimension to the team’s build-up play and it’s no surprise the big clubs want him.
Furthermore, his composure and decision-making under pressure are attributes that would be invaluable in high-stakes international tournaments.
In other Everton news, a £1billion full Toffees buyout update has been shared by Alan Myers as Farhad Moshiri’s takeover stance emerges.
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