David Moyes gives update on Jarrad Branthwaite injury after Everton vs Burnley
David Moyes has alleviated fears over an injury to Jarrad Branthwaite after the defender limped off during Everton’s 2-0 win over Burnley on Tuesday evening.
The 23-year-old was replaced by Michael Keane in the 83rd minute, sparking concerns about a potential fitness issue.
Everton were already two goals to the good by that point, with James Tarkowski heading home before Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall doubled the Toffees’ lead just past the hour mark.
Even without Branthwaite on the pitch, David Moyes’ side were able to hang onto their clean sheet and claim their first win at the Hill Dickinson Stadium since the start of December.
David Moyes confirms cause of Jarrad Branthwaite’s limping
Branthwaite missed the entire first half of the season through injury, making his long-awaited return in January.
The England international has now started each of the last four Premier League games for Moyes’ side, and is quickly getting back to his best in the centre of defence.
It is understandable then that there was some concern among Toffees fans as Branthwaite was taken off in the closing stages of the win over Burnley, given that he seemed to be in some discomfort.
However, as per Joe Thomas on X, Moyes has confirmed that the defender is fine and was simply suffering from a bit of fatigue towards the end of the game.
Branthwaite played the full 90 minutes in the win over Newcastle United on Saturday before starting against Burnley three days later, and Moyes admitted the quick turnaround was “a lot” for him.
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Everton cannot afford Jarrad Branthwaite injury
Since returning to the starting lineup, especially at centre-back, Branthwaite has reminded Everton fans just how good he really is.
If the Toffees are to have any chance of qualifying for Europe next season, then they have to keep the Englishman fit.
It was a sensible decision by Moyes to take the defender off in the closing stages of the win over Burnley, especially if he was complaining of some discomfort.
Everton had a two-goal buffer, and the Scot cannot afford to take any risks with Branthwaite, especially after a long-term injury.
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