Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti will change his lineup for tonight’s match against Salford City in the Carabao Cup. The question is, which youngsters could play?
With the shortened pre-season and the arrival of three new players, fitness could be an issue for Everton, although it didn’t look like it against Tottenham Hotspur. However, Ancelotti hasn’t been afraid to give youngsters a chance and will likely turn to some against League Two Salford City in the second round of the Carabao Cup at Goodison Park.
Centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite is almost a certainty to start. At 1.95 meters (6-foot-4) he brings the size welcome at his position. The 18-year-old has had a startling rise. Jarrad Branthwaite started last season on the bench for his home-town team, Carlisle United and made nine appearances in the first team, before moving to Everton for almost a million pounds in January. He was the first purchase of Ancelotti’s tenure.
Injuries paved the way for Jarrad Branthwaite to find his way into the Toffees’ first XI and he impressed in four appearances.
Ancelotti told the Everton official site:
"I am really happy with him (Jarrad Branthwaite), he is really young. But he showed quality and personality and character. He is really calm with the ball, really comfortable, and really aggressive without the ball. He can be a fantastic player for us."
Jarrad Branthwaite will start. But, he won’t be the only youngster to start the match.