Jarrad Branthwaite looks set to miss the rest of the season after suffering a hamstring injury that could also impact his World Cup hopes, according to reports.
Everton center-back Jarrad Branthwaite is likely to miss the remainder of the current campaign after sustaining a suspected hamstring injury during the recent Merseyside derby against Liverpool. The 22-year-old was forced to leave the pitch after being pushed, landing awkwardly near the sideline. The challenge went unpunished, and Branthwaite’s attempt to quickly return to play appeared to aggravate the injury. The player was clearly in distress on the pitch, clutching his thigh before being stretchered off following an on-field assessment.
Medical scans have since indicated that the injury could sideline the defender for at least two months. While the issue is not considered to be as severe as it could have been, it effectively rules him out for the remainder of the season. The injury is particularly frustrating as it could also negatively impact his prospects for World Cup team selection. Despite this setback, there is cautious optimism that Branthwaite will recover in time for the start of pre-season training in July.
