- Everton derby loss further soured by hamstring injury to Jarrad Branthwaite.
- England international had only recently returned to the Toffees’ starting XI.
- Update on defender’s injury suggests he could return fully fit for 2026-27.
Everton’s dramatic defeat against Liverpool was made much worse after the news that Jarrad Branthwaite is to be ruled out for the rest of the season with a hamstring injury.
After making 65 league appearances between 2023 and 2025, he has featured only seven times for the Blues this season after a string of bad luck with his fitness.
As a naturally left-footed defender, he is a key component in David Moyes’ side and to lose him is a huge blow for their European football hopes.
But the Toffees have since given an update on the 23-year-old’s injury, which has handed them a boost for next season.
Jarrad Branthwaite does not require any surgery
In a message released by Everton, they stated the defender does not require any surgery but will not feature again this season.
They said: “Everton can confirm Jarrad Branthwaite sustained a hamstring injury during Sunday’s Merseyside derby.
“The injury is unrelated to the hamstring area which required surgery in October, with a scan confirming no procedure is needed this time around.
“Branthwaite will now undergo rehabilitation at Finch Farm with Everton’s medical team and is unlikely to feature again this season.”
Although an unfortunate update that will see Branthwaite miss out on a chance to join England at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, this should mean the centre back can return for preseason.
Branthwaite is in need of a preseason
This season has been one to forget for Branthwaite, and it is through no fault of his own.
As Everton pushes for Europe, it has left Moyes with the conundrum of wanting to play his best defender, but also ensuring he is not rushed back into action.
A conflict of this nature does not help any player, so the potential of the 23-year-old returning for the Toffees’ preseason campaign is positive update.
In the summer he may have the possibility of building up fitness in low intensity games, and give himself the ideal platform of a consistent season.
Everton are a better side with Branthwaite in their starting lineup, and although he will be a big miss for their final league matches, there is hope he will return to his best next season.
