Everton defender Michael Keane has been one of the standout performers this season.
Michael Keane was set to leave in the summer upon the expiry of his contract, but David Moyes decided to do a U-turn and offer him a new deal.
Everton fans have been so impressed by Keane this season, with many saying he looks totally reinvigorated.
That begs the question, does Keane come straight out of the team when Jarrad Branthwaite returns from injury?
Well, Keane has had his say.
Michael Keane sends message to David Moyes
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Keane admitted he wants to give Moyes a headache when Branthwaite is back available.
“Unluckily for Jarrad, it’s not worked out like that for him,” the Everton defender said.
“That’s given me the opportunity, so I just need to keep playing like I am doing and give the manager a headache when the time comes.
“I’d like to think I’ve done enough for it not to be a straightforward decision. I know Jarrad’s quality and what he brings to the team and what he brings to the club.”
Keane added that he’s not naive to the fact that Moyes could drop him to the bench immediately.
“I’m not naive like that. But I want to make it as difficult as I can and even if I do come out of the team, I want the manager to be looking at me for the next opportunity to get me back in.
“No matter what happens, I’ll keep giving my best and I want to keep proving that I’m good enough and that I can help this team.
“I know I’ve still got the quality to compete. Hopefully I’ve managed to show that to the manager in the first part of the season.”
Jarrad Branthwaite injury update
Speaking ahead of the West Ham United clash this evening, Moyes gave an update on Branthwaite’s condition.
“Jarrad is fine, but he’ll not be available for Monday and neither is Merlin, they’re both out,” the Scotsman explained.
“At the moment, Jarrad is not back with the group, we’re expecting him back shortly, but not quite yet.”
Branthwaite is yet to make an appearance this season, so he will need to get back up to speed before he’s match fit.
That may allow Keane to remain in the team longer, or Moyes could perhaps drop James Tarkowski for Branthwaite.
It’ll be interesting to see what decision the Everton boss makes.
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