‘My main ambition’: 20-year-old Everton player now sets target ahead of new Premier League season

Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite has revealed that he aims to become a regular starter for the Blues ahead of the new Premier League season.

The 20-year-old spent last season on loan at Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven and impressed during his spell in the Eredivisie.

Indeed, PSV have sought to make the move a permanent one, such was Branthwaite’s impact during his 36 appearances.

However, speaking with the Independent, the centre-half states that his ‘main ambition’ is to earn a place in Everton’s first team and compete in as many Premier League games as possible.

Branthwaite said: “You’ve got to set your goals. To play in the Premier League continuously is a big thing for every player.

When I left Carlisle for Everton, it was my goal to play in the Premier League. I think every kid’s goal is to play in the Premier League.

That would be my main ambition. Just to solidify myself in a team in the Premier League at Everton and play as many games as I can.”

Branthwaite return could be timely for cash strapped Everton in need of squad reinforcements

The Carlisle-born defender has made 13 Premier League appearences in an Everton shirt since joining the Blues in 2020, and it is hoped he can have a big future at the club.

Indeed, the young man has now earned invaluable senior experience, firstly during his loan to Blackburn Rovers in January 2021, making 10 starts for the Lancashire club before an injury prematurely ended his time at Ewood Park.

His subsequent loan to PSV last summer was a tremendous success, ending in silverware for the Eindhoven side as they beat Ajax on pens to lift the KNVB Cup.

With Everton’s defence in a state of flux and in need of a rebuild, this could be the breakthrough year that the young defender is hoping for in the Premier League.