Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite did not travel with the squad for their warm-weather camp in Portugal.
It has been revealed that Branthwaite decided to remain at Finch Farm to work individually as he managed his workload on the back of his recent return from injury.
Troy Deeney thinks Branthwaite is good enough for England, but he remains concerned about his ability to remain fit.
Moyes’ current deal expires next year… 🤔
Everton manager David Moyes.
Any initial fears from Everton fans can be dismissed, but this does only highlight some of the concerns surrounding the 23-year-old, who has experienced his fair share of injury blows.
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Jarrad Branthwaite misses Everton’s training camp
Having only returned to the side at the end of January, Moyes is managing Branthwaite’s minutes in the starting XI.
The 23-year-old did not start against Fulham, but he has since played virtually every minute since the trip to London.
Is Moyes still underappreciated by Everton fans for the job he’s doing? 🤔
Everton manager David Moyes.
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In an attempt to manage his workload, one club insider has said on X that Branthwaite was left behind at Finch Farm over the weekend.
The other Everton players jetted off to Portugal, where they will be training in the sunshine.
Although there has not been an injury setback for Branthwaite, the report does claim that the Blues will be looking to manage his minutes until the end of the season.
Branthwaite has been deployed at left-back in certain games since he returned from injury.
Although Michael Keane recently lost his centre-back role to Branthwaite, this update could suggest the veteran could be making a return before the end of the season.
Everton may be pushing for European qualification, but the Blues do not want to head into another summer pre-season without their star defender due to injury.
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