'Huge boost' - Everton-mad pundit thrilled after what happened in last 72 hours

Michael Ball was thrilled to have Jarrad Branthwaite back in the Everton starting eleven against West Ham on Saturday.

The Toffees kept a clean sheet away from home on 9 November and returned to Merseyside with a point from their travels to the capital.

Before the Hammers clash, Sean Dyche had opted to start Michael Keane against Southampton and that game ended 1-0 in favour of the Saints.

Ball, a former Toffees player and a fan of the club told the Liverpool Echo: “It was a huge boost for Everton to have Jarrad Branthwaite in the starting line-up again and while we knew he wasn’t going to be 100% and he’d be shaky at times as he’s got to get back to that match rhythm, he gives you that absolute assurance when he’s passing the ball around at the back. He’s got that ability to put his foot on it and find a pass with the link-up play to his team-mates either side of him.

“Jarrad brings balance to our team when he receives the ball and he’ll play through the lines, going up the field some 10-15 yards to drive with it. When you see him on the pitch in that royal blue jersey, you think the opposition are going to struggle to get opportunities as he gives us that quality that’s been lacking.

“It was great to see him back and hopefully he’ll get some more minutes for England Under-21s and he’ll come back a lot sharper for the busy festive period.”

Everton will hope Jarrad Branthwaite does not pick up an injury on international duty

Given Branthwaite’s injury history this season, the Toffees might communicate with England Under-21s coaches to manage his playing time carefully.

Although his return to the pitch is a significant boost for Everton, ensuring his full recovery is crucial for the team’s long-term success.

The 22-year-old’s involvement with the England Under-21s could be beneficial for his sharpness, but there’s a risk of overexertion or reinjury if not managed properly.

The club would likely prefer if he uses this international break to focus on rehabilitation and conditioning rather than intense competitive matches.

Playing in behind-closed-doors friendlies could be an ideal scenario, allowing him to regain match fitness without the pressure of official games.

This strategy would aim to have him return to the Blues not just fit, but in an optimum condition, considering the demanding festive schedule ahead where his composure and defensive skills will be vital.

In other Everton news, a claim has emerged on the club’s transfer budget after what they did in the summer.

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