**Jarrad Branthwaite has endured a fresh setback in his Everton road to recovery.**
Branthwaite is yet to feature in a competitive appearance for David Moyes’ side this term after encountering hamstring problems during pre-season.
He had been in contention for a potential inclusion in the Blues’ matchday squad for last weekend’s defeat at Manchester City after returning to training.
But the England international’s spell on the sidelines is set to be prolonged with corrective surgery now required in a bid to resolve his ongoing issue.
Everton confirmed on Monday that Branthwaite will go under the knife after experiencing ‘a complication’ in his attempts to return to first-team action.
“Following specialist consultation, it has been determined the defender will undergo a surgical procedure tomorrow to address the issue,” read a statement.
Branthwaite will commence a structured rehabilitation programme under the supervision of the club’s medical team following the operation.”