King hails 'Sensible' Sean Dyche as Branthwaite prediction made ahead of West Ham v Everton

Bryan King believes Jarrad Branthwaite could return to the starting lineup when Everton play West Ham on Saturday.

The ex-Goodison scout has praised Sean Dyche’s “sensible” decision to not rush the Toffees’ star defender back from injury.

Branthwaite will be looking to make just his second Premier League start of the season at the London Stadium (9 November), with Troy Deeney sharing a Dyche admission ahead of the clash with the Hammers.

However, King – speaking exclusively to Goodison News – only thinks the centre-back will return once the Everton boss feels the time is right.

“I think there is a chance Branthwaite starts against West Ham,” King said.

“However, it is very sensible what Dyche is doing. Branthwaite is a young player, who picked up a nasty injury, and training fitness and match fitness are two different things.

“If Dyche doesn’t feel like he’s ready to start, then that is the manager’s choice. However, if Branthwaite proves he is match fit, then I’m sure Dyche will bring him in at the right time.”

Jarrad Branthwaite to start for Everton v West Ham?

A lot of Everton supporters are probably surprised that Branthwaite is yet to return to the team.

The 22-year-old has been on the bench for the Toffees’ last two matches in the Premier League. However, it would be hard to criticise Dyche’s decision, considering Everton have conceded just twice in those two matches.

Therefore, it is clear to see that defending hasn’t been a major issue for the club in recent weeks, meaning there has been no need to rush Branthwaite back and risk further injury.

However, supporters at Goodison Park will no doubt still be keen to see him back on the pitch.

The longer the defender doesn’t play, the longer transfer speculation around his future will continue to swirl.

In other Everton news, a fringe player at the club has shared a Goodison Park admission.

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