Ally McCoist shares Jarrad Branthwaite admission after what he saw in Arsenal v Everton
Ally McCoist has lauded Jarrad Branthwaite following his display against Arsenal but suggests that the Everton star will not make England’s EURO 2024 squad.
The 21-year-old has experienced an incredible campaign with the Toffees, having earned his first international call-up this season, but was not given his debut by Gareth Southgate.
Sean Dyche’s defence has been vital at Goodison Park this season, with the trio of Branthwaite, James Tarkowski and Jordan Pickford only conceding more goals than Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool.
Speaking live talkSPORT on Tuesday (21 May, 8:16am), McCoist said: “I was at the game on Sunday and I thought Everton played really well. I thought they would have gotten a point if not for the handball.
“Tarkowski, I felt, was different class. And I think Branthwaite has been terrific, aside from the Chelsea game where he struggled a little bit, but he’s young so he’s entitled to that.
“Sadly, I don’t think he will be on the plane. Should he be in the reckoning? You better believe he should. I think he’s had a terrific season.”
Will Everton ace Jarrad Branthwaite be involved at EURO 2024 in Germany?
Despite the youngster’s breakout season, it seems unlikely that Southgate will pick Branthwaite for the Three Lions squad this summer.
Harry Maguire and John Stones have always been the chosen duo at the back for England, while Ezri Konsa has entered the frame as a replacement for either of those two.
Lewis Dunk is another name that Southgate seems to have above Branthwaite, despite the Everton man being able to keep 12 Premier League clean sheets during a tough season at Goodison Park.
The England manager seems to be very set in his ways when it comes to squad selections, with the likes of Jordan Henderson and Marcus Rashford still being chosen in recent squads despite a lack of form.
It may have been a different story if the young centre-back had been handed his debut against Brazil or Belgium in March. However, he was stuck to the bench as England lost and drew their friendly matches.
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