A big emphasis is going to be placed on managing Jarrad Branthwaite’s minutes at Everton until the end of the season.
Ahead of the game against Arsenal, Branthwaite has felt tightness in both hamstrings on the back of a significant injury over the summer.
Branthwaite did not travel to Everton’s warm-weather camp over recent days in Portugal.
What do you think is Jarrad Branthwaite’s best position? 🤔
Moyes is convinced he's just as good at left-back… 😬
Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton during the pre-season friendly match between Everton and AS Roma. David Moyes, head coach of Everton, during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton at St James' Park.
Credit: Getty Images/Jan Kruger/James Gill – Danehouse.
As a result, it is looking unlikely that Branthwaite is going to make the trip to the Emirates Stadium at the weekend with David Moyes’ side.
Everton v Burnley - Premier League
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Jarrad Branthwaite ‘unlikely’ to play for Everton against Arsenal
Everton will likely be left with Michael Keane and James Tarkowski to choose from on Saturday in north London.
Speaking on A View From The Bullens, one club insider has admitted Branthwaite’s fitness concerns will likely keep him out at the weekend.
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Everton vs Arsenal stat.
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“Jarrad felt tightness in his hamstrings [vs Burnley] and was subsequently taken off with a few minutes to go to ease off. That was 100% the right call,” he said.
“So, you know, it’s very, very unlikely he will be at the Emirates.
“They are looking at the rehab schedule again and listening to the specialists and the consultants. They’re going about it the right way; they’re not going to cut corners with this one.”
Branthwaite has played a lot of football since his return, with seven appearances made under Moyes since the back end of January.
There has not been a great deal of managing Branthwaite’s minutes given he has averaged 70 minutes per appearance in the Premier League.
However, it has to be remembered that the 23-year-old has missed months and months of action following his surgery.
As the Blues have now received advice from specialists to be sensible with Branthwaite, it is also unlikely he will feature against Chelsea next week.
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