LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 04: Sean Dyche, Manager of Everton, gives a thumbs up during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Goodison Park on November 04, 2023 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images)
Everton has undergone a metamorphosis in recent weeks, as expectations for improved play and goals have finally materialized.
Sean Dyche attested that things will improve, and as predicted, two victories and a draw over the course of six days validated his predictions.
Finally, the Toffees’ supporters appear to be coming together behind a manager who understands their situation and is prepared to work hard to create a better future for the team.
Nonetheless, it would be difficult to overlook the contributions of some of those on-field stars who have also stepped up, especially in addition to his astute strategies tailored to the players.
The season’s biggest success story has been Jarrad Branthwaite in particular, who returned from his loan spell with PSV Eindhoven and has adapted to life in the Premier League with ease.
The 21-year-old’s potential suitors have been linked to the Dutch team, and Dyche has maintained his insistence that his youthful defender was never up for grabs, despite persistent rumors to the contrary.
Even though he would say more later, his first 13-word comment, “I was making it clear he wouldn’t be a player who was available,” summarised his views on the subject.
The 52-year-old would continue, saying, “We had to reduce the wage bill a little bit. I knew there were certain players who had to leave the building, whether I wanted them to or not.”
“No, he’s one I want to be in the building and I see development in him,” I stated rather clearly.
How good is Jarrad Branthwaite?
The £35k-per-week behemoth appears to have become virtually unstoppable after making a few first-team outings this season. He is now among the first names on the team sheet.
Given how much Dyche has lauded the center-back—who is classy in possession but frequently wise enough to know when to pump the ball clear of danger—it is not surprising that the coach would express such faith in the player.
According to Sofascore, the former Carlisle United player is averaging an impressive 2.2 tackles, 4.8 clearances, and 7.6 ball recoveries per game throughout his nine league starts.
He is a defensive Goliath, and few forwards in world football would relish spending an afternoon trying to get past him and James Tarkowski.
It appears Dyche has discovered the ideal mix at the back to hopefully create that brighter future for the long run, with Branthwaite giving the youthful enthusiasm that always gets fans excited and the rock-solid 30-year-old creating a wonderful platform for him to grow.
