Everton have just recorded another huge victory on the road, as they brushed aside a limp West Ham United to hand the hosts their third successive loss, and propel themselves way up the table.
It was a perfect Sean Dyche performance from front to back, as the forwards worked relentlessly, and the defence remained solid, steadfast, and laser-focused throughout.
Limiting the hosts to minimal opportunities, it should come as no surprise that Sky Sports saw fit to hand Jarrad Branthwaite the Player of the Match award following yet another stunning display from the youngster.
However, the co-commentator Alan Smith had reserved praise for the England U21 international way before he handed over the accolade, lauding the centre-back’s impact in Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s winning goal.
Speaking live on Sky Sports’ commentary (14:21, 29/10/23), the former Arsenal striker would brand the defender ‘really solid’, then noting: ‘Looking at a possible foul by Branthwaite but I don’t think it is, he knocks it off first time, and then that little shift and shot.’
At full-time, he would pick back up his praise, claiming he had ‘been at the forefront of things’, hailing a ‘top display’.
How did Jarrad Branthwaite play vs West Ham?
The young titan seems to just get better and better with every game, looking like a seasoned veteran beside James Tarkowki, but in the pacey 6 foot 5 frame of a true physical marvel.
He would manage a truly astounding ten clearances throughout the 90 minutes, backing up such stellar defensive figures with a further one block, two interceptions and two tackles, via Sofascore.
A composed yet combative outing for the inexperienced ace, to shackle established Premier League stars such as Michail Antonio, Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus marked a feat worth celebrating, deserving of the adulation Smith bestowed upon him.
This is not the first piece of praise that Branthwaite has received, and it surely will not be the last.
Any success Everton hope to achieve in the present or the future likely rests on the availability of their newest young superstar, with his new long-term £35k-per-week deal a welcome one for Dyche.
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