- Everton heartbreak as Branthwaite stretcher exit overshadows derby defeat.
- Moyes fears serious hamstring damage for defender after standout performance.
- Crucial season finale and faint World Cup hopes at risk following late injury.
Everton’s cruel defeat to Liverpool in the first Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium was made worse by a worrying injury to Jarrad Branthwaite.
The 23‑year‑old centre‑back, who had been outstanding throughout the contest, was taken off on a stretcher in the 87th minute after collapsing in agony while challenging Cody Gakpo.
Branthwaite clutched the back of his leg and immediately signalled for medical attention. David Moyes, speaking after the game, did not hide his concern.
Moyes: ‘He was probably the best player on the pitch’
“Jarrad was probably the best player on the pitch,” Moyes told Everton. “I thought he played so well. I’m worried it could be serious, but we’ll have to wait and see.”
The Everton manager later added: “[There’s no update] but I’m worried, though. We’ve not had any results.”
Branthwaite’s numbers from the derby were impressive. According to Sofascore, He contributed 11 defensive actions, including four tackles, one interception, six clearances and seven recoveries. He won four of his five ground duels and both of his aerial duels.
On the ball, he completed 32 of 36 passes (89%), including four of six long balls. He also created one big chance and made one key pass.
Branthwaite had only recently returned to full fitness but the Liverpool performance was a performance of real authority. Now his season hangs in the balance.
Branthwaite having a difficult season disrupted by injury
This latest setback follows a nightmare campaign for Branthwaite. He missed the first half of the season after undergoing surgery on a hamstring injury in October, sidelined for 163 days. He did not make his first appearance until late January. Since then, he has been carefully managed, with Moyes repeatedly stressing the need to protect him.
“There are times where you have to look after the players,” Moyes said back in March. “The time of Jarrad’s injury, the length of his injury, meant that we were always going to have to be mindful of it.”
Despite that caution, Branthwaite has managed only 10 appearances this season with seven starts, totalling 689 minutes. He had also missed time in March with a separate thigh issue. Now, the fear is that his right hamstring, the same one that required surgery has suffered a significant setback.
What comes next for Branthwaite and Everton
The early signs are not encouraging. Branthwaite was seen palpating the upper to mid‑portion of his hamstring, which typically indicates a more serious issue. As per Physio scout, the injury was more than tightness and may require longer recovery times. The scans will reveal the exact extent but recovery times vary from 2 weeks to 4 months in more serious cases.
For Everton, the timing could hardly be worse. With five Premier League games remaining and European qualification still possible, losing Branthwaite would be a heavy blow. But the immediate concern is for the player himself. A serious hamstring injury now would also put any chances of the summer World Cup in serious doubt.
Moyes will wait for the scan results. For now, all he can do is hope.
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