While James Tarkowski was building a formidable partnership with Jarrad Branthwaite the Everton captain was keen to share the wider story of their success.
The growth of the pair, and the way the more experienced Tarkowski has dovetailed his attributes with Branthwaite’s emerging talent, has been a major factor in the progress that has been visible on the pitch for some months.
One of the reasons that combination has found value is because of what goes on behind the scenes.
What supporters are watching on the pitch is the tip of an iceberg - this is a two-man pairing that has grown so strong, so quickly, because it is built on the work of four men. Tarkowski’s words now hold poignancy after those two teammates, Ben Godfrey and Michael Keane, emerged from the shadows to put in classy, important displays just when Sean Dyche needed them.
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Dyche was forced into four changes to his starting line up at Burnley - and a change of formation as well. The suspension of Branthwaite and injuries to Vitalii Mykolenko, Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman left big holes in a small squad. The Blues boss responded with a move to five at the back. That meant introducing Godfrey, who had played just a handful of Premier League minutes this season, and Keane, who started the campaign before losing his place to Branthwaite. Keane fought through an ankle injury to make himself available at Turf Moor.
Both players had highlights in the game. Godfrey’s sliced clearance as Zeki Amdouni prepared to tap in for Burnley was loaded with menace but he somehow
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