Dan Bardell moots 'blessing in disguise' as Everton transfer admission shared

Dan Bardell believes an injury to Jarrad Branthwaite will help Everton keep him after interest from Manchester United.

Sean Dyche suggested on 3 August [Liverpool World] that the Toffees were hopeful that the centre-back would be fit for the Premier League opener against Brighton.

This was some positive news for supporters after weeks of transfer speculation linking the Englishman with a move to Old Trafford [Daily Mirror, 23 July, page 51].

Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell thinks that injury may have benefitted Everton in their attempt to keep the 22-year-old.

Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, Bardell said: “I really don’t think Branthwaite is going to leave now.

“I think if that was going to be the case then it would have already happened. His injury could end up being a bit convenient for Everton, maybe someone was going to look at him before that happened.

“It could be a blessing in disguise. I don’t think he’ll be out for the long term and the good news is they’ve got new high-level cover in Jake O’Brien.

“I don’t think they’ve got to worry about losing Branthwaite, that deal isn’t going to happen now I don’t think.“

Everton to keep Jarrad Branthwaite

The Toffees will have been desperate to keep hold of the promising centre-back after a superb campaign in the Premier League.

Alongside the experience of James Tarkowski and Jordan Pickford, the former Carlisle man was able to improve week by week.

His performances got to the point where it was a surprise amongst England fans that Branthwaite wasn’t selected for Gareth Southgate’s EUROs squad.

These showings also caught the eye of Erik ten Haag’s side who have maintained a consistent interest in the defender throughout the summer.

After weeks of uncertainty, with the new season fast approaching, supporters can now rest easy knowing their starman looks set to stay for at least another campaign.

In other Everton news, the Toffees may be on alert after a Scott McTominay update emerged at Manchester United

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