ThewolfJames Tarkowski has revealed Everton teammate Jarrad Branthwaite is nearing match fitness as he aims to return to the side after the international break.
Branthwaite was absent from the matchday squad in the 0-0 draw against Newcastle United at Goodison Park on Saturday [5 October] after he returned to the side from injury in the 2-1 win against Crystal Palace.
The 22-year-old is expected to be available for the trip to Ipswich Town once club football resumes and Tarkowski, as reported by The Mirror [10 October] is eagerly awaiting his return.
He said: “Jarrad is getting back up to full fitness after a tough time out. That’s a massive plus for us because he was one of our most important players last season.
“I’ve always said competition is the most important thing in any squad. If you’ve got an 11 that picks itself, it’s never ideal because people can get comfortable.
“It’s hugely important to have that feeling of fighting for your spot and staying consistent with your levels.”
Jarrad Branthwaite return will bring success for Everton
It is no coincidence that the Toffees’ only win in the Premier League this season came in Branthwaite’s sole start for the club.
Michael Keane, to the dismay of Everton fans, has deputised in the absence of the centre-back and has produced some truly shocking and error-prone performances for the Blues after a run of four consecutive league defeats.
Sean Dyche must prioritise managing Branthwaite over the international break while the defender is needed to lead the Blues backline, the side cannot afford another setback or worse another lengthy spell on the sidelines.
With Jake O’Brien still not trusted by the boss, the quality centre-back options at Goodison Park are few and far between, the partnership of Tarkowski and Branthwaite was formidable in the Premier League last term and their defensive record was only bettered by Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City.
Branthwaite oozed quality against Crystal Palace, showing Dyche and the Premier League why the club rejected multiple approaches for his services from Manchester United over the summer and the level to which, Everton can operate when he is in the side.
The Toffees have arguably an easy task returning to winning ways against Ipswich, anything less than three points would be yet another failure for Dyche in his quest to save his job at Goodison Park.
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