‘Really impressed’: James Tarkowski tips Jarrad Branthwaite to reach ‘the very top’

Everton defender James Tarkowski has praised teammate Jarrad Branthwaite after another stellar display from the 21-year-old.

Vice-captain Tarkowski believes his centre-back partner has everything to reach ‘the very top’ of the game, stating he has been ‘really impressed’ with the young defender.

Speaking via the Liverpool Echo after Saturday’s 3-1 win over Brentford, Tarkowski was full of praise for Branthwaite, stating: “He’s calm, technically very good, physical and quick. He’s also got size.

He’s got everything to go to the very top of the game, especially for his age. I didn’t see too much of him last season, so this was my first real look and I’ve been really impressed.”

Everton must do what they can to keep hold of talented Jarrad Branthwaite

Jarrad Branthwaite has been a standout performer in an Everton shirt in the opening weeks of the season and has at times dug his teammates out of trouble at the back.

Indeed, the 21-year-old has been a stabilising presence in defence and his consistent performances have forced Sean Dyche to drop £30m defender Michael Keane to the bench.

It is clear to see how much the young centre-back developed during his loan spell at PSV Eindhoven last season, and he already looks head and shoulders above Everton’s other defensive options.

Eindhoven were reportedly keen to take Branthwaite on a permanent basis in the summer and it already feels as if we have to enjoy seeing the prodigious talent in an Everton shirt while we still can.

There is no doubt the Cumbrian-born defender has all of the makings of a top centre-back, and should he continue on his current trajectory, he can definitely reach ‘the very top’.

Everton have got a serious talent in Jarrad Branthwaite, and hopefully he can develop into a truly top-class centre-back at the Toffees