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Alan Myers shares Everton 'challenge' after new contract for defender

Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and David Moyes

(Credit: Imago)

Aheed Abrar

Fri 27 June 2025 18:40, UK

Jarrad Branthwaite could potentially stay at Everton for several years to come with a new contract at Bramley-Moore Dock.

The England international has been influential under David Moyes, and it isn’t surprising to see the Toffees working on securing his future.

Branthwaite’s deal at the Hill Dickinson Stadium is close to being extended, which will be a massive relief for the Scottish manager ahead of next season.

The 23-year-old centre-back now has a massive challenge on his hands as the Merseyside outfit enter a new era under The Friedkin Group (TFG).

Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite

Branthwaite could soon sign a new contract at Everton. (Credit: Imago)

Everton need to make progress after Branthwaite contract agreement

Branthwaite and the rest of his teammates will have the challenge of making progress at the Toffees from next season, Alan Myers says.

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The former Sky Sports journalist believes the English defender’s contract extension will be a massive boost for the Blues, with Moyes surely playing a significant role in securing the centre-back’s future.

Myers feels that the Merseyside outfit now need to show the 23-year-old that he’s made the right decision by showing ambition in the coming years.

Competitin Appearances Points per match

Premier League 30 1.33

Branthwaite’s Premier League record last season.

The journalist shared on X (27 June): “Securing a new deal with Branthwaite is a real plus for Everton. Not necessarily just about the future, but it’s a clear indication of the present too.

“It shows me that the right decisions are being made by the club. I imagine Moyes was key to the decision to keep him at Everton; the owners, I believe, would want him to make these choices.

“It’s now up to the club to make Branthwaite feel he’s somewhere that can give him that sense of a club going in the right direction, regardless of recent years. Now the challenge for him and the rest of the squad is to ensure that continues, but even in the unlikely event (in my opinion) that Everton don’t push on, the club has put itself in a strong position. The takeaway is that good decisions are being made.”

Moyes to build success at Hill Dickinson Stadium around Branthwaite

Moyes’ Premier League record after returning to the Toffees was impressive, helping them finish 13th, their highest in four years.

James Tarkowski was influential at Goodison Park last season, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him partner Branthwaite once again in the upcoming campaign.

While the Blues arguably need to reinforce their backline this summer, a new centre-back shouldn’t be a priority after the 23-year-old defender’s contract extension.

Everton undoubtedly need a new right-back, despite Seamus Coleman extending his stay, with the Irishman’s consistent fitness issues being a concern.

Jake O’Brien played on the right-hand side of the defence under Moyes, but it would seemingly be better to develop him in a central position from next season.

Nathan Patterson’s future at the Merseyside outfit is uncertain, making the addition of a quality right-back an evident priority.

The Blues also should look for a backup left-back to compete with Vitalii Mykolenko after Ashley Young’s departure.

With Branthwaite’s extension, the Toffees will make a statement of intent and protect his value ahead of a future transfer.

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