Everton fans react to performance of Jarrad Branthwaite during Under-23 win

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Everton under-23s produced a solid display to defeat West Ham United 2-1 last night. Thierry Small and Ellis Simms grabbed the goals for the Toffees, with Keenan Appiah-Forson scoring for the Hammers.

One man who caught the eye, however, was young centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite. The battling defender produced a stunning goal-line clearance which earned rave reviews from supporters.

The teenager checked in at Goodison Park from League Two outfit Carlisle United and broke into the first-team at the back end of the 2019/20 campaign.

Branthwaite made four appearances for the Toffees during the final stages of last season but is yet to make an outing in the Premier League this time around.

There is, of course, plenty of time for the youngster to win a regular place in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans. For now, however, he must continue putting in the work with the under-23 ranks.

Branthwaite is uncompromising, strong in the tackle and, as showcased last night, reads the game exceptionally well.

His performance, in general, was good last night but it was his goal-line heroics which really caught the eye among Everton supporters.

Here is what the Blues faithful were saying about the young defender.

https://twitter.com/DAD_LAD_GAMING/status/1338573623137853444

https://twitter.com/steverhoeven/status/1338564620408262665

https://twitter.com/SilkyRichy/status/1338562904682016771