Everton transfer stance on potential £2.7m ‘next John Stones’ hints at his role in the team

Jarrad Branthwaite can expect more game time this season at Everton

The Spaniard intends to keep him at least until January and the former Carlisle man will have chances to show his talent. The idea behind keeping him as the fifth centre back option is to help cover central defence should Godfrey or Holgate be forced to slot into a full back role.

Everton’s options are scarce at right back and left back, with practically no cover at left back to Lucas Digne after Niels Nkounkou left on loan to Standard Liege. Godfrey played 10 games at left back last season when Digne was recuperating from an ankle injury.

On the right hand side, the Toffees failure to find a long term successor to Seamus Coleman will come to haunt them this season and there has already been the first scare as the Irishman has been injured on international duty. Jonjoe Kenny doesn’t impart a lot of confidence, projecting at the idea of using Holgate as a makeshift right back or even Godfrey.

In such a case, Branthwaite providing cover to central defence becomes of utmost importance. Not to forget Mina, who has been troubled by the ghost of injuries throughout his Everton career. Branthwaite will continue to get starts in the Carabao Cup and when the festive schedule causes headaches to managers and physio teams, Branthwaite may even get more playing time.

Just like Anthony Gordon, who could have a breakthrough season under Benitez, Branthwaite will also be optimistic of having a better shot at first team football. At least till January, these youngsters will want to make a positive impression in training to earn their chances in the first team.

Will Jarrad Branthwaite get significant game time this season?