Jarrad Branthwaite is rated highly by his team-mates, says Aaron Lennon _(Image: PA)_
Former England winger Aaron Lennon says Cumbrian defender Jarrad Branthwaite’s quality is the talk of the Everton dressing room.
Ex-Toffees wide man Lennon says he has spoken to some of Branthwaite’s team-mates who rave about his ability.
England international Branthwaite, 22, is regarded as a hot property at Goodison Park with the Wigton star regularly linked with big-money moves.
Lennon has spoken of his hope that the centre-back does not leave Everton any time soon but that his potential is undeniable.
Speaking to Jeff Stelling and Ally McCoist on TalkSport, Lennon said of the ex-Carlisle United player: “He is some talent. He is some player.
“I speak to a few of the Everton boys, and they say he is absolutely brilliant.
Aaron Lennon spoke about Branthwaite _(Image: PA)_
“I think a few of the big clubs wanted him in the summer, it looked like. He didn’t get that move.
“Obviously, he has had a tough start with injuries this season, but he is vital. He is vital to that team. He is vital for them staying up this season...he's a fantastic player."
Branthwaite has been limited to just seven appearances so far this season because of injury problems.
But he has featured in Everton’s last four Premier League games, most recently their 4-0 home win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on December 4.
After the Merseyside derby against Liverpool last weekend was postponed because of Storm Darragh, Branthwaite’s next outing is set to come on Saturday when Everton go to Arsenal.
McCoist, on the TalkSport show, said he felt Branthwaite was unlucky not to make the final England squad for this summer's European Championships.
"He's got some future ahead of him," said the former Rangers and Scotland star of the Cumbrian, who has one senior England cap to his name so far.