Jarrad Branthwaite may be handed boost amid Everton exit links after Gareth Southgate update

Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite could well be handed a boost to his chances of being in the final England squad for Euro 2024 after a new update.

The Toffees’ gem has been included in Gareth Southgate’s preliminary squad ahead of this summer’s tournament having received his maiden call-up for the March international fixtures against Belgium and Brazil.

While the 21-year-old didn’t play a part in either game, he could well be set to start for the Three Lions against Bosnia and Herzegovina after Southgate confirmed both Harry Maguire and John Stones would miss the clash at St James’ Park.

As shared by Sky Sports News on Sunday (2 June) he said: “All are progressing well so we’re pleased with the progress that they’ve made.

“None of them will be involved tomorrow, same tomorrow for Bukayo [Saka] and John Stones, but everybody else will be available.”

Will Jarrad Branthwaite play for England at the Euros amid Manchester United links?

With neither of his first-choice centre-back options available to him, Southgate is going to have to experiment for Monday (3 June) night’s game and it seems incredibly likely that Branthwaite could be handed his debut.

He will have to compete with the likes of Lewis Dunk, Joe Gomez, Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah even with both Maguire and Stones ruled out, but his excellent form in the second half of the season should see him start.

Dunk has flattered to deceive in an England shirt throughout his career and struggled during the March friendlies and of the remaining options, Branthwaite is one of the few with the skillset to play as a left centre-half.

A good showing at St James’ Park on Monday could well be enough for Branthwaite to book his place at Euro 2024 and as he continues to be linked with a move away from Everton, a strong tournament will only boost his valuation

Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing the Toffees star this summer who the Blues are understood to value around £80million [The Independent, 30 May].

If he could play a part in helping the Three Lions lift the Euros this summer, that fee could still rise by a few million pounds.