Despite being sidelined at the start of the season, Jarrad Branthwaite recently made an impact in Everton’s victory against Crystal Palace. The young defender has been the subject of significant transfer interest from top clubs. Manchester United reportedly made a £50 million offer, which was deemed insufficient, while Liverpool has shown speculative interest that does not meet Everton’s £70 million valuation. Everton manager Sean Dyche addressed the external distractions affecting Branthwaite and his focus on the game, saying:
Sean Dyche said, “There is a lot going on for him outside of what we do, nothing to do with him [but] there are stories everywhere about him. I said in the summer he’ll be staying here and he is so that’s good.”
Amid financial challenges, Everton has been forced to sell prominent players due to profitability and sustainability regulations. Dyche admitted the uncertainties surrounding the club’s future, even in light of a potential takeover by the Friedkin Group. He explained:
Sean Dyche said, “The club has a situation which it will still be looking upon. If new ownership goes through, that might change things financially in terms of the viewpoint of where it is at and where it wants to go but we don’t know that yet. We’ll just have to wait and see.”
Branthwaite’s return has been pivotal to Everton’s recent win, and Dyche reflected on the synergy between Branthwaite and his teammates. He highlighted:
Sean Dyche said, “He is rounded enough to know that but there are 10 other players out there at any given time working hard and I thought they worked hard around him on Saturday as he is still getting back to true fitness.”
Acknowledging Branthwaite’s awareness of teamwork, Dyche further stated:
Sean Dyche said, “I know him well enough to know he is well aware of his team-mates and what the importance of the group is.”
