Jarrad Branthwaite’s England World Cup chances rated amid latest Everton update
Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite will be hoping to make England’s 2026 World Cup squad next summer.
Branthwaite has not played for Everton since suffering an injury in a pre-season friendly with AS Roma in August.
David Moyes provided a positive update on Branthwaite ahead of the clash with Liverpool, but whether he is ready to return is uncertain.
He now faces a battle to get into Thomas Tuchel‘s squad for the competition, which will be held in the United States and try and expand on his one cap.
Goodison News presents the exclusive opinion of iconic football commentator Ian Darke.
Jarrad Branthwaite’s World Cup chances in doubt after Everton blow
Jack Grealish is one Everton star pushing for the England squad, but Branthwaite will be expecting to have a spot on the plane for the World Cup.
Darke believes that Branthwaite may just be clinging on to his place in the squad, and needs to get back to action soon if he is to go to the tournament.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, he said: “Well if it goes on it will, I am not sure he is not due back in the team.
“I think he is alright, but he has definitely lost ground, because every time there is an international break and you are not involved, other players are putting their heads above the parapet, and advancing their cases.
“For the moment, I wouldn’t say he is a forgotten figure, he will have been shuffled back in the pack, it is not like he was an England regular before like John Stones, who has had his fitness problems, he has played for England at big tournaments, and you know how good he can be when he is fit and firing.
“Somebody like him would be ahead of Branthwaite, in the queue at the moment, I think he has got it do now, with the months running out, to get in that squad.
“They have got to pick a couple of extra defenders over and above the ones who are in the team, he is not without a chance, but he needs to get playing pretty soon, I would say.”
Branthwaite was exceptional last season, making 3.22 recoveries and 6.09 clearances per game, as per Sofascore.
Jarrad Branthwaite needs to return against Liverpool
Branthwaite has been out of action since pre-season, so he will be rusty when he makes his comeback.
Moyes may not choose to throw him on from the start despite his quality, and he may face a battle to retain his spot given Keane’s form.
He needs to get back to action as soon as possible if he is to work his way back into Tuchel’s plans.
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