Everton have added to their rich run of form, having blown away Burnley to reach the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup last night.
Having struggled at Goodison Park throughout this season, it was a welcome sight to see Sean Dyche’s Toffees cruise past the visitors despite never really exiting second gear.
They completely neutralised the Clarets’ attack, and were clinical when the chances fell at the other end of the pitch. As such, the 3-0 scoreline was more than merited.
However, it also marked yet another truly outstanding showing from Jarrad Branthwaite , who continues to prove his worth at the back for a club with a rich history of unearthing top central defenders.
The 21-year-old was powerful and commanding against Jay Rodriguez, yet showcased his class on numerous occasions to explain exactly why there is so much interest surrounding him.
Everton v Burnley – Carabao Cup Fourth Round
As such, high praise was always expected, with the Liverpool ECHO’s Connor O’Neill leading it in his post-match ratings.
Handing the former Carlisle United titan an 8/10, he would then write: ‘Another Rolls Royce performance from the centre-back. He produced a superb block in the first-half to deny a Burnley equaliser and plays like a midfielder when in possession.’
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How did Jarrad Branthwaite play vs Burnley?
Coming off the back of a fine away victory at West Ham United, there was a quiet confidence surrounding last night’s clash.
However, few would have expected such dominance, largely forged from the fine defensive foundation the £35k-per-week colossus offered.
With four clearances, two tackles and one interception, his solidity was emphasised, and yet his five wins out of seven duels outlines an efficiency in the tackle too, via Sofascore.
Everton v Burnley – Carabao Cup Fourth Round
He marshalled his opposite man with ease, using his immense physicality as if he had been featuring at the top of the game for years.
Such maturity wrapped in an elite youngster’s frame is indicative of the huge potential Branthwaite holds, and alongside James Tarkowski, the immediate future of Everton’s backline seems safe and secure.
