Alan Stubbs tips Jarrad Branthwaite to elevate his game
Former Everton star Alan Stubbs has tipped England defender Jarrad Branthwaite to “take his game up a level” after labelling the centre-half as “fantastic”, reports BritPanorama.
Branthwaite came on against Spain in the Three Lions’ first Nations League match of this camp and has had an impressive start to the Premier League season with Everton. He has been part of a backline that has conceded the joint-fewest goals in the Premier League this season, allowing only three in five matches.
Stubbs, speaking exclusively through Gambler Media, expressed confidence in Branthwaite’s potential, predicting exciting times ahead for the young 24-year-old.
He stated: “Everton are a much better, a significantly better team with Jarred Branthwaite in it, and I think that speaks volumes for him. For a centre back at a pretty young age, I think everything he’s doing now is a bonus. I personally feel that Jarred Branthwaite can go to the very top. I really do.”
Stubbs highlighted Branthwaite’s attributes, noting his height and speed, saying, “He’s six foot five, he’s very quick, he’s a left-sided centre-back, which there’s not a huge amount of. He’s English, and he’s comfortable on the ball.” He acknowledged areas where Branthwaite could improve but remained optimistic about his future, asserting, “the sky’s the limit.”
Should Everton consider selling the 24-year-old, Stubbs believes they could command a substantial fee due to his qualities. He remarked, “I would say if Everton were to sell Branthwaite next summer, and I certainly hope they don’t, but I would have thought that he is going to be upwards of £85million.”
Branthwaite is one of three Everton players in the squad for the national team, alongside regular choice Jordan Pickford and midfielder James Garner. When asked about other potential challengers from Everton for a place in Thomas Tuchel’s team, Stubbs mentioned Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, noting his impressive form prior to injury.
Looking ahead, he said, “If he has a really positive season, I don’t think he’s a million miles away from getting a call-up. But he’s got a rich amount of talent in front of him for that position. It’s a very healthy position for England.” The Three Lions will next face the Czech Republic, wrapping up this month’s camps with high expectations on their performance.
In a world where every game writes a new chapter in collective stories, young talents like Branthwaite remind us of the promise resting in the balance of potential and opportunity, capturing the imagination of supporters with every touch on the pitch.
