Dwight McNeil and Jarrad Branthwaite injury update for Everton v Brentford
Sean Dyche revealed that Dwight McNeil and Jarrad Branthwaite trained ahead of the Everton showdown against Brentford.
McNeil missed the 0-0 draw against West Ham on 9 November in the Premier League, while Branthwaite had to withdraw from the England squad recently due to fitness issues [Daily Mail, 14 November].
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, shared on X, with the Toffees set to face the Bees at home on 23 November, Dyche gave a positive update on the duo.
“Dwight’s coming through it well, actually. Had a really good week training. Jarrad trained today after settling things down, so we’ll see how he responds overnight. But we’re hopeful.”
Dwight McNeil and Jarrad Branthwaite critical to Everton success
McNeil has been Everton’s standout performer this season, scoring four goals and providing three assists in all competitions.
The 24-year-old is the Blues’ leading goalscorer in the current campaign and has had to lead the club with Dominic Calvert-Lewin struggling to find his shooting boots.
As for Branthwaite, he’s missed most of the season due to multiple fitness issues, but when the centre-back has played, the Toffees have looked more solid defensively.
Everton hadn’t won a game in the Premier League until the 22-year-old featured for them in their 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on 28 September.
Dyche has struggled to get the best out of the Blues this season, with them sitting 16th in the Premier League and hovering above the relegation zone.
The game against Brentford is critical for the Toffees to widen the gap with the drop zone, and the Goodison faithful will definitely be more at ease if McNeil and Branthwaite are involved.
In other Everton news, the club are set to pick a different side in the battle between Manchester City and the league.
For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.