‘Very impressive’: Peter Reid tips Jarrad Branthwaite to have a ‘great future’

Everton icon Peter Reid has praised 21-year-old defender Jarrad Branthwaite as the young centre-back continues his superb run of form.

Branthwaite has established himself as a first-choice centre-back alongside James Tarkowski this season, and Reid insists that the young defender has a ‘great future’.

Indeed, after a successful loan spell at Dutch side PSV Eindhoven, Branthwaite returned to Goodison Park in the summer and has oozed class and composure at the back.

Speaking with the Liverpool Echo, Reid states that the 21-year-old’s performances so far this year have been ‘very impressive’ and believes there is more to come from the Cumbrian born defender.

Reidy said: “I think he has done great, the kid. I think he looks composed; he’s got a bit about him, and he has been very impressive.

I think he has a great future ahead of him. I like him. I think he reads the game really well, and I think he smells danger, which I like from defenders.

He’s adapted himself tremendously well in difficult circumstances because it is a struggle at the moment for the Blues, as we all know.

He’s gone in there, and he’s done smashing. I just think the more games he plays, the better he gets.”

Branthwaite is an extremely exciting prospect at Everton

The experience of playing in the Eredivisie last season has no doubt played a huge part in Jarrad Branthwaite’s development and he already comfortably looks like Everton’s most accomplished defender.

It what has been a grim few years at Goodison Park, watching a prodigious talent blossom in a blue shirt has been a rare joy, and there are echoes of John Stones in Branthwaite’s style.

Recently committing himself to the club until 2027, Branthwaite’s contract extension was a huge boost, and while there will no doubt be a host of potential suitors chasing his signature in years to come, it will be a pleasure to watch the 21-year-old develop this year.