Manager Update On Branthwaite Injury

David Moyes says he’s concerned Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury could be “serious” – and has praised the defender for an excellent performance in Sunday’s Merseyside derby.

A 100^th Liverpool winner – scored by Virgil van Dijk – denied the Toffees a point in the first-ever derby match at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Everton were the better side throughout the majority of the contest, levelling through Beto in the second half after seeing an early Iliman Ndiaye opener ruled out for offside.

Defender Branthwaite – excellent in the Blues backline – was taken off on a stretcher in the 87^th minute, suffering an injury after being knocked off balance while contesting possession with Cody Gakpo, before falling in agony, holding the back of his leg. 

“Jarrad was probably the best player on the pitch," Moyes told evertontv. "I thought he played so well. I’m worried it could be serious, but we’ll have to wait and see.”

The young centre-back had put in an excellent showing in the derby clash, completing six of his seven duels, including both of aerial battles, while making five clearances and completing 30 of 35 passes.

For Branthwaite, the setback follows a long-term hamstring injury which saw him ruled out from the start of this season until late January.

“[There’s no update] but I’m worried, though,” added Moyes. “We’ve not had any results.”