Jarrad Branthwaite blows away Sky Sports studio after Everton win v Crystal Palace
Clinton Morrison was blown away by Jarrad Branthwaite and his “outstanding” performance for Everton in the 2-1 win against Crystal Palace on 28 September.
Sean Dyche picked up his first win of the season at Goodison Park as Dwight McNeil completed the turnaround in the second half after Marc Guehi gave the visitors a one-goal lead heading into the break.
While McNeil will take the plaudits for his brace, Morrison pinpointed Branthwaite live on Sky Sports [28 September, 16:47] as the difference maker for Everton.
He said: “Everton have defended excellent, having Branthwaite back made a big difference, him and [James] Tarkowski, the partnership has been outstanding.”
Jarrad Branthwaite could overturn Everton fortunes
It is no coincidence that Everton recorded their first win of the season after six games with Branthwaite back in the starting lineup for the first time this term.
The Blues are yet to keep a clean sheet this season and Guehi’s goal marks the fifteenth goal conceded, the most among the Premier League sides.
However, for the first time this season, Everton held their own in the face of a one-goal deficit and inflicted the same fate they have suffered this season on Crystal Palace, overturning the deficit to secure the three points.
This feels like a real turning point for the Blues and Dyche, who will now feel the weight lifted from his shoulders with his first victory and should, for now, ease the speculation regarding his future at the club.
With Nathan Patterson and Seamus Coleman nearing their returns to the first team and summer signings Iliman Ndiaye and Orel Mangala settling into the side, it is all positive signs at Goodison Park with much-needed momentum to take to Newcastle United next weekend.
Jasper Lindstrom’s half-time removal suggests Dyche is still figuring out his strongest Everton lineup but, Branthwaite has rightfully reclaimed his place in the side and his presence will be massive for the club as they set their sights on steering comfortably away from the relegation zone.
In other Everton news, here’s how the Blues rated v Crystal Palace.
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