Jarrad Branthwaite has pulled out of the England under-21 squad.
The national team have confirmed that the Everton defender has withdrawn from international duty due to an injury sustained ‘prior to camp’.
Branthwaite was in line to make his first appearance for The Young Lions since returning from their 2023 Under-21 Euros victory, but will instead have to wait until the next international break in October.
The ‘fantastic’ centre-back only has two caps for the under-21s to his name, making his debut from the bench in a friendly defeat to Japan U-22 before making his first start in the EURO group stage win over Germany.
Branthwaite’s brilliant loan spell with PSV is what catapulted him into the international limelight, though he hasn’t had much of an opportunity to impress Lee Carsley since returning to Goodison Park.
Nevertheless, Branthwaite was named in the Young Lions’ squad for their upcoming EURO qualifier against Luxembourg. The 21-year-old was the only Everton representative as James Garner is no longer available ahead of his 23rd birthday in March.
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However, England have now confirmed that Branthwaite has returned to Finch Farm, with Swansea City defender Bashir Humphreys replacing him in the squad.
Everton will hope Jarrad Branthwaite is available for Arsenal clash
Everton have now confirmed that Branthwaite will undergo planned treatment on a minor groin issue sustained in the summer while on international duty.
Branthwaite played the full 90 minutes as the Toffees drew 2-2 with Sheffield United at the weekend and is expected to be available for their fixture against Arsenal upon return.