Jarrad Branthwaite’s participation at the European Under 21 Championships is in doubt after he injured his hamstring playing in Everton’s final game at Goodison Park on Sunday.
The stylish centre back limped off in the 74th minute of Everton’s 2-0 win over Southampton clutching the back of his thigh and while, tests are continuing, is considered a doubt for England as they head to the tournament in Slovakia next month.
England U21s coach Lee Carsley was expected to draft in 22-year old Branthwaite after another impressive season at the heart of Everton’s back line.
The defender will miss Everton’s last league game away to Newcastle United, joining teammate James Tarkowski on the sidelines after he had surgery on a hamstring injury also.
England U21s open their tournament on June 12 against Czechia before facing Slovenia then old foes Germany.
Branthwaite is a player senior manager Thomas Tuchel is also keeping a close eye on. The German spoke to the centre back before omitting him from his inaugural full England squad and underlined the importance of maintaining his progress and upward career path.
Jarrad Branthwaite was forced off in Everton’s last-ever match at Goodison Park on Sunday
The 22-year-old pulled up with a hamstring problem while chasing the ball against Southampton
Lee Carsley had been expected to select Branthwaite for his England U21s Euro squad
Everton rejected bids from Manchester United last season for Branthwaite and are keen to tie him down to a new contract with manager David Moyes wanting to build a young squad that can push for Europe next season.
However, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool and Bayern Munich are all maintaining a watching brief as they look to bolster their defences this summer.
Everton have valued Branthwaite at £70million which could yet act as a deterrent for those clubs who also considering cheaper options such as Jorrel Hato of Ajax, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Jonathan Tah who is free and expected to sign for Bayern Munich.
Everton want to start rebuilding a squad themselves soon with the likes of Abdoulaye Doucoure expected to depart and Ashley Young among those confirmed to go. Moyes is keen to add at least two new defenders, budget permitting, as well as a striker, winger and two midfielders.
