Jarrad Branthwaite’s vital return stabilises the defence while teenage prodigy Harrison Armstrong forces a selection headache as the Toffees grapple with squad depth and a looming captaincy decision.
Week two of the weekly Everton column.
The Toffees played their second game of pre-season at the weekend, drawing 0-0 away at Bolton, following on from their 4-0 victory over Dundee.
We’re edging closer and closer to the return of Premier League action, but we don’t appear much closer to any new signings.
The talk of Iliman Ndiaye leaving has sparked some worry among the fanbase, as the concrete stories surrounding the club appear to be more about exits than incomings.
The right-back situation remains unresolved, although maybe David Moyes has a trick up his sleeve.
How good was it to see Jarrad Branthwaite return to action at the weekend?
I can’t describe how important I think Branthwaite is to Everton’s success. I’ve touched on it in a previous article, but he’s one of a few Everton players who could survive as we, hopefully, progress.
He’s a player suited to playing in a defensive style due to his box defending, but can also transition into a centre-back capable of playing in a possession-based side. Everton are, quite simply, a better side when he’s playing, and it’s imperative that he remains fit for the season.
The injury issues have helped keep big clubs away, but hopefully they start circling again next summer, as that means he’s over the fitness problems and has been performing well for us.
The young midfielder is quietly giving Moyes a few issues.
I’ve consistently said that Harrison Armstrong needs to be heading out on loan this summer, but the more I see him play for Everton, the more I think he’s capable of coming straight into the side.
He plays with a maturity beyond his years, and he has all the tools to become a top midfielder. I’m sure Everton have been considering, and probably still are, sending him out on loan, but he’s giving Moyes and the hierarchy a tougher decision to make.
There’s no doubt he can make an impact at Premier League level, but he simply has to play regularly if he does stick around. We can’t afford to ruin his development.
The obvious and likely answer to the captain conundrum is James Tarkowski, but is it the right decision?
With a captain, I think it should be a long-term thing. Having Seamus Coleman with the armband for a lengthy period ensured stability, continuity, and someone who can constantly set the standards for new players.
How long has Tarkowski got left as a guaranteed starter at Everton?
Action Images via ReutersAction Images via Reuters
The former Burnley man turns 34 during the season, meaning Everton will have to make another captaincy change in the near future.
For me, you’ve got to give it one of the younger leaders. Of course, I don’t know too much about what players are like in the dressing room, but the likes of James Garner, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Branthwaite could be better options.
Someone like Tarkowski is going to lead on the pitch regardless of whether he’s wearing an armband. Players such as Garner, Branthwaite, and Dewsbury-Hall could, in theory, be Everton’s captain for the next five years.
Of course, that relies on them sticking around, but it also might tempt them to remain with the club if chosen.