Jarrad Branthwaite did not travel with the rest of the squad to Portugal over the weekend for its warm weather training.
Everton’s squad have jetted off to Portugal for a warm-weather training camp during the 11-day break between Premier League fixtures. The trip comes after the Toffees’ early exit from the FA Cup, giving David Moyes valuable time on the training ground with his players as they push for European qualification.
With nine games remaining and Everton sitting eighth in the table, every detail matters. The camp in the Algarve offers a chance to reset, build cohesion, and prepare for a crucial run-in that includes trips to Arsenal and Brentford, plus home games against Chelsea and Liverpool. But one notable absence from the travelling party has raised eyebrows among supporters.
Branthwaite absent as Everton manage workload
According to ElBobble via X on Monday, Jarrad Branthwaite did not travel with the rest of the squad to Portugal over the weekend. The England international has been carefully integrated back into the side after missing the first half of the campaign through injury, making his first appearance of the season in late January.
However, rather than a fresh setback, his absence is due to a positive reason. Everton are looking to manage the 23-year-old defender’s minutes carefully between now and the end of the season, ensuring he is available for the crucial run-in without risking further problems.
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Branthwaite has played 492 minutes of Premier League football this season, with each of his appearances coming since the end of January. He played a key role in Everton’s 2-0 win over Burnley last time out, helping the Toffees to a clean sheet, and the club are keen to build his fitness gradually.
Portugal chosen after the Middle East plans changed
Everton had originally planned to travel to the United Arab Emirates for their warm-weather break, having previously visited Abu Dhabi under previous managers. However, given the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the club made the sensible decision to relocate to Portugal instead.
The Algarve resort of Quinta do Lago, where the squad are now based, offers reliable training conditions, world-class facilities and a safe environment. It is a destination Everton have used before, having trained there under Sean Dyche in 2024.
Moyes has consistently taken a cautious approach with Branthwaite since his return. Back in January, the Everton boss admitted the defender was “not ready to start” having been “out for the best part of eight months”. That careful management continues now, with the club prioritising having their star defender available for the season’s most important matches.
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