With David Moyes hoping Jarrad Branthwaite will be the leading figure for Everton’s future, fans have begun to raise doubts.
After Branthwaite signed his new contract keeping him at Everton until June 2030, the fact that he rejected interest proves he’s fully invested in The Friedkin Group’s project.
Fans called Branthwaite’s new deal a ‘statement of intent’ as it seemed like the central defender would be going elsewhere.
The likes of Chelsea and Man United were after his signature, but Moyes worked his magic to convince the 22-year-old to stay.
However, the first bump has appeared in the road as Branthwaite will be out for six weeks, missing the start of the season, and Evertonians are beginning to get concerned.
Everton fans are concerned by Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury troubles
Following the news that the centre-back will miss the start of the season, the fanbase has gone into a panic.
The six-foot-five stalwart is an integral part of Moyes’ plans, and to not have him for the start of the campaign is a real blow, but the Toffees faithful think this news is the start of something unfortunate.
Fans on X have raised their worry, as one wrote: “Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury history is starting to become a little concerning for me,” another added, “John Stones reincarnate,” referring to the Man City and former Everton defender’s injury troubles.
Another added their view, saying, “Totally agree and I do hope he doesn’t turn into another DCL, spending more time on the treatment table than on the pitch,” whereas someone abruptly said, “I’d sell him I would.”
Despite being 22, a supporter believes this could be the start of something troubling: “This is why Messi, Ronaldo, Salah, etc were so good. Always fit, always available. Once the injury nonsense starts, it’s very concerning,” one supporter agreed with the concern, saying: “I said this yeno.”
Whether this is just a reactionary response to an injury that will see him out for just over a month remains to be seen, but it can’t be denied that injuries have taken their toll on Branthwaite.
Everton fans think Michael Keane starts against Leeds, which isn’t what was expected, and after Branthwaite’s injury record, he could be seeing a lot more game time.
- READ MORE: ‘Remember the name’… Everton fans think they’ve spotted the next big thing after Harrison Armstrong
Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury history isn’t a good look for Everton
The hope is that the defender is on the mend after this latest hamstring injury, as the centre-back is no stranger to setbacks.
In his early career, the 22-year-old was troubled by ankle injuries, but his hamstring has been a frustrating factor.
He suffered a hamstring injury during his loan spell at PSV Eindhoven in March 2023, which could be the source of the current problem.
Adding to why fans are concerned, the defender also underwent groin surgery last summer to treat ongoing groin problems, but the recovery took longer than expected, and he wasn’t back in the team until October.
There is certainly reason to be worried, but Moyes will pray this is the last of his frustrating spells on the sidelines, as Branthwaite can become ‘one of the best’.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
