‘He has the tools’: Pundit says Everton have a 21-year-old that could have an exceptional future
Jolean Lescott has predicted a huge future for Jarrad Branthwaite.
Speaking ahead of Everton’s draw with Sheffield United, Lescott praised the 21-year-old and predicted him to become an ‘exceptional’ player at Goodison Park.
Branthwaite joined Everton from Carlisle United in 2020 but failed to establish himself as a regular in the first team, making only ten appearances in the Premier League prior to this season.
While the youngster also enjoyed a loan spell with Blackburn Rovers, it was his stint at PSV last term that earned him plenty of praise for his excellent performances.
Branthwaite made 36 appearances in all competitions for PSV last season and was the subject of serious interest from the Dutch club eager to bring him back this summer, while Manchester United were also linked.
However, the Toffees were desperate to keep hold of Branthwaite and he was brought into the starting line-up to replace the struggling Michael Keane against Wolves.
While he has been unable to help Everton in a tough start to the campaign, Lescott is still very confident that Branthwaite can become a key player.
Jarrad Branthwaite ‘has all the tools’ to be exceptional
Speaking to TNT Sports, he said: “When I first saw him I immediately saw that he has an understanding of when to clear it and when you can keep possession and I think that’s key now.
“He’s comfortable in a 1v1 and he has all the tools to be an exceptional player.”
Branthwaite is likely to keep his place in Sean Dyche’s plans following their 2-2 draw against the Blades, with Keane nowhere to be seen in the match-day squad.
The centre-back will have an even busier afternoon next weekend when the Toffees host Arsenal. Branthwaite started in PSV’s backline in his last appearance against the Gunners, claiming a 2-0 win in the Europa League back in October 2022.
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