Everton manager David Moyes expressed satisfaction following Jarrad Branthwaite’s call-up to the England squad under new manager Thomas Tuchel, marking the defender’s first recall since his single international appearance in June. Branthwaite is set to join the England squad after Everton’s match against Ipswich Town, with the national team scheduled to face Spain, the Czech Republic twice, and Croatia during the upcoming international break.
Branthwaite’s international experience is limited to 28 minutes as a substitute in England’s 3-0 friendly victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina at St James’ Park on June 3. The 21-year-old defender’s progress has been hampered by hamstring injuries, restricting him to just 10 appearances for Everton throughout last season.
Moyes acknowledged the challenges Branthwaite has faced but remains optimistic about his potential. “I’m really pleased for anyone who gets selected for their country. Jarrad even more so because of the injuries he’s had,” Moyes said. He tempered expectations about Branthwaite’s involvement in all four upcoming England fixtures, expressing a preference for managing his workload during the busy period. “I’m hoping he doesn’t play four games, that’s for sure! But I’d be thrilled if Jarrad gets in.”
The Everton manager highlighted the defender’s physical attributes and ongoing development, noting that taller players sometimes require time to mature fully. “Jarrad is a big, tall boy with long limbs and can take a bit of time to make sure that they grow into it a little bit,” Moyes explained. He added that Everton’s coaching staff have worked diligently with Branthwaite through pre-season to prepare him for the campaign ahead.
In addition to comments on Branthwaite, Moyes provided updates on the fitness status of Harrison Armstrong and Merlin Rohl, both of whom missed Everton’s recent Carabao Cup victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Armstrong’s condition remains under observation, though Moyes expects him to recover soon, while Rohl is still unavailable but may return after the international break.
Everton will also be without Christian Norgaard for the match against Ipswich Town, with the midfielder yet to make his debut since transferring from Arsenal during the summer.
