Jarrad Branthwaite is set to miss two months with a hamstring injury.
The Everton centre-back’s season is now over after being stretchered off at the weekend in the Merseyside Derby.
It was abundantly clear that Branthwaite had suffered a serious injury as he left the field in tears.
How worried are you about Branthwaite’s inability to stay fit? 🤕
He's become a real liability in terms of his fitness 😫
Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton FC reacts during the Premier League match between Brentford and Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/Sebastian Frej/MB Media
The Daily Mail now claim scans have shown the injury not to be as bad as first feared, though.
Jarrad Branthwaite injury not as bad as feared
David Moyes admitted he was worried about Branthwaite’s injury following the full-time whistle on Sunday.
However, the positive news from his scans reveal the injury is not as severe as first feared.
What could Moyes have done differently to avoid that late goal? 🫣
David Moyes, Manager of Everton, looks on prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Credit: Getty Images/Liverpool FC
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There is hope that the 23-year-old will be able to return in time for the start of Everton’s pre-season efforts.
Everton held recent concerns over Branthwaite’s fitness following his long-term hamstring issue that did require surgery.
Although the defender is going to miss the crucial run-in as the Blues eye European qualification, the extent of the injury has to come as a positive.
Michael Keane will now be expected to return to the starting XI, with West Ham United next up for the Toffees.
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