Jarrad Branthwaite fitness update emerges at Everton ahead of West Ham clash

Add as preferred source on Google

Everton fans still aren’t over the fact that Sean Dyche decided to leave Jarrad Branthwaite out of his starting lineup against Southampton, and now there’s been an update ahead of the weekend.

Michael Ball was one of the first to call out Sean Dyche for his Jarrad Branthwaite snub at the weekend.

Jarrad Branthwaite has only played six minutes of action since returning against Fulham, and after the loss to Southampton, Everton fans have had enough.

Sean Dyche’s decision to leave out Branthwaite didn’t please the players either, as it’s been reported that it sent a shock through the dressing room.

Now, a fitness update has emerged on the defender ahead of the West Ham clash this weekend, not that it will matter if Dyche turns his back on him again.

• READ MORE: What sources close to Dan Friedkin are saying which will have a huge impact on Everton

Jarrad Branthwaite fitness update emerges ahead of West Ham

James Tarkowski and Michael Keane continue to be the preferred pairing at the heart of the defence, with Dyche already sharing his admiration for how the pair have played during the unbeaten run.

You would hope that after a Southampton performance that could have seen Tarkowski given red, a change will be made to bolster the defence.

Well, it looks as if Jarrad Branthwaite is up to scratch from what Chris Beesley is saying.

Speaking via the Royal Blue podcast on YouTube, Beesley said: “I understand that he’s fully fit now and wants to get back in and regain match sharpness. He should’ve been back in there [v Southampton].”

Who should start at centre-back against West Ham?

James Tarkowski has been suffering with a secret injury at Everton that has hampered him all season, so a rest for him is required anyway.

He’s not been at his best in recent weeks, with rash decisions and clumsy football being played.

Michael Keane has been one of the bright sparks for Everton to be fair to him, scoring a goal against Ipswich and even being deployed as a striker at times.

Jarrad Branthwaite offers a bit more calmness and quality on the ball at the back, as well as the obvious pace and strength, which will be needed against the likes of Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville.