Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is not expected to feature again this campaign after suffering a hamstring problem during Sunday’s Merseyside derby defeat. The centre-back was visibly distressed as he was carried off on a stretcher in the closing stages of the 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is not expected to feature again this campaign after suffering a hamstring problem during Sunday’s Merseyside derby defeat. The centre-back was visibly distressed as he was carried off on a stretcher in the closing stages of the 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The incident occurred in the 87th minute, cutting short his involvement and leaving teammates and staff worried about the severity of the issue. Following the match, the 23-year-old was seen using crutches, further underlining the seriousness of the setback.
Manager David Moyes admitted after the game that there were concerns the injury might be significant, given both the nature of the problem and the player’s reaction as he left the pitch.
This latest blow comes after Branthwaite had already endured a lengthy absence earlier in the season. He missed the opening five months following hamstring surgery carried out in October, only returning to action in January.
Despite fears of another long-term issue, medical assessments have confirmed that this new injury is not connected to his previous one. Everton also stated that surgery will not be required, offering a degree of relief.
Even so, the timing is unfortunate, as the defender had only recently re-established himself in the squad after his earlier rehabilitation period.
Branthwaite will now begin his recovery programme at Everton’s Finch Farm training facility. The club confirmed that he will undergo rehabilitation there as he works towards regaining fitness.
While avoiding an operation is positive, the expectation remains that he will not return before the end of the season. This effectively rules him out of Everton’s remaining fixtures.
The absence of a key defensive figure could impact the team during a crucial stage of the campaign, particularly as they continue pushing for a higher league finish.
The injury also casts doubt over Branthwaite’s international ambitions. England’s World Cup campaign is set to begin on 17 June against Croatia in the United States, leaving limited time for recovery.
Although he earned his senior debut in a friendly against Bosnia-Herzegovina two years ago, he was not included in the squad for Euro 2024. This latest setback complicates his chances of being considered for selection.
Meanwhile, Everton sit 10th in the table and remain in contention for European qualification, trailing sixth-placed Brighton by just three points as the season approaches its conclusion.
