Everton have become dangerously reliant on Jarrad Branthwaite’s talents over the last 12 months, but with a player this good, there aren’t many teams that wouldn’t be.
After all, despite his youth, already he is a commanding figure for the Toffees, and a staple of a backline that starred last season.
However, their summer was therefore dominated by rumours about where his next move might be, sparking fear amongst the fanbase.
Everton’s fresh transfer stance on the matter has just been outlined.
Everton’s transfer stance on Jarrad Branthwaite
The latest on Jarrad Branthwaite’s Everton future, which has recently been updated by Fabrizio Romano, actually comes courtesy of the Liverpool ECHO.
And, their update is one of great positivity, suggesting that the higher-ups at Goodison Park are preparing to hold firm on their stance regarding the 22-year-old.
The report reads: ‘Despite such speculative reporting, the ECHO understands nothing has changed from when bookmakers slashed the odds of Branthwaite joining Liverpool in August. Back then, both club insiders and those close to the England international’s camp were left bemused by the developments, claiming to be unaware where such speculation has come from, with zero contact between Everton and Liverpool on the matter.
‘Although Everton top brass have remained tight-lipped publicly when asked about potential Liverpool interest in Branthwaite, the club believe they will be operating from a position of strength should any further interest emerge in the England international.’
Liverpool have also been credited with an interest in Branthwaite, but that is a move that has also been swiftly debunked.
Everton cannot afford to lose Jarrad Branthwaite
Realistically, unless a competent contingency plan is drawn up, Everton simply cannot afford to lose Jarrad Branthwaite.
This season alone has already exhibited just how painfully dependent the current squad already is.
Before his return to the starting side, they were yet to win a Premier League game, and the step up from Michael Keane to him is startling. Not to mention what it does to his teammates, making James Tarkowski far more calm and controlled, and injecting the much-needed pace to bail out both full-backs.
Jake O’Brien was brought in over the summer, likely with a view to replacing the England international, but a lack of faith has seen Everton manager Sean Dyche keep him tied to the bench.
Perhaps, the thinking was to slowly integrate him over the season before accepting Branthwaite’s departure next summer.
Whatever the plan, it needs to be a surefire one. They seem lost without him.
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