“I spent a season alongside him, and he was outstanding, but we all know the talent he possesses as a player,” says James Tarkowski, naming the ‘outstanding’ Everton player he hopes will stay at the club this summer.

James Tarkowski describes the “outstanding” Everton player he hopes will stay at the team this summer, saying, “I spent a season alongside him, and he was outstanding, but we all know the talent he possesses as a player.”
James Tarkowski of Everton expressed optimism that Jarrad Branthwaite, who is considered “outstanding,” would remain with the team past this summer after Manchester United’s two bids for him were turned down.

Despite an eight-point deduction for profit and sustainability breaches, the youthful centre-back had an outstanding debut season in 2023–24, making 41 appearances and scoring three goals. This helped Everton avoid Premier League relegation.

Everton finished the season with the fifth-best defensive record in the league because to the strong defensive tandem of Branthwaite and Tarkowski. Manchester United is interested in Branthwaite and has placed two bids for him during the summer transfer window. But Everton has refused to sell the player and has rejected both offers.

After Everton and AS Roma drew 1-1 in a preseason friendly, Tarkowski stated that he hoped Branthwaite will play shortly after undergoing minor groin surgery. “I’m not privy to all of the discussions about Jarrad, but I spent a season playing with him, and he was outstanding,” stated the vice captain of Everton. Although he is still young and has potential, his ability as a player is well known.

Personally, I hope he stays here because this year I get to play with him once more. Although I am aware that he is currently juggling a few things, I’m hoping that he will soon return to the team and the pitch because he was a crucial member of the squad the previous season.

Everton strengthened their defence ahead of the 2024–25 campaign when they paid £17 million to buy Jake O’Brien from Lyon. O’Brien has played in three preseason games. Should Branthwaite and Michael Keane (knee injury) be sidelined, he might start the season opener at Goodison Park against Brighton.

Tarkowski gave O’Brien high marks, stating, “He’s done well.” Considering how we play—aggressive, pushing high up the pitch, and winning the ball early—he’s still young and has a lot to learn. However, he is physically strong and adept at the ball, so I have no doubt that he will mesh well with the club.

After missing Everton’s first three preseason games due to a glute injury, Tarkowski recently made a full recovery and said he was “ready to go.” Yes, I missed a few weeks, so there has been some fitness catch-up,” he continued. However, I’ll be prepared. I’ve been practicing with the boys on the grass for the past two weeks. I’m prepared to leave, so yes.