'Doesn't make sense' - Ian Wright baffled by Jarrad Branthwaite decision after Everton man's England call-up
Ian Wright has taken to X, formerly Twitter, to express his confusion over Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite’s lack of minutes for England.
The Arsenal legend believes it was an opportunity missed for the national team. Wright said: “How did Jarrad Branthwaite get zero minutes across the two friendlies. Doesn't make sense. Perfect opportunity to have a look at him.”
Branthwaite received his first call-up to England’s senior squad for the international friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. However, he didn’t get the chance to claim his first senior cap and was left as an unused substitute in both games, which saw the Three Lions lose 1-0 and then draw 2-2.
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The 21-year-old has cemented himself alongside James Tarkowski at the heart of the Everton backline this season after returning from a loan spell in Holland and has scored twice in 25 appearances.
Branthwaite enjoyed a successful stint with PSV, winning the KNVB Cup final against Ajax, and racking up 27 appearances for the Dutch side.
Liverpool’s Joe Gomez was chosen ahead of the former Carlisle United youngster to come off the bench in both of England's fixtures over the international break and he was the only defensive substitute not called upon in the defeat to Brazil on Saturday.
Lewis Dunk was chosen to start over Branthwaite against Belgium on Tuesday night but the Brighton man failed to deal with a ball over the top, which allowed former Everton striker Romelu Lukaku to assist Youri Tielemans for his second goal of the night.
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