Q&A: Branthwaite On England Return, Playing With Pickford & Injury Rehab

Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite has opened up on his England call-up during a pre-match press conference at St. George’s Park on Wednesday morning.

The Blues centre-back – who earned a place in the latest Three Lions squad along with fellow Everton teammates Jordan Pickford and James Garner – spoke ahead of England’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.

Branthwaite revealed his reaction to the call-up, explained how he’s recovered from previous injury troubles and how he believes he's becoming a leader at Everton.

On pride at England call up…

JB: To be called up by England means everything.

All the hard work and rehab has made it worthwhile. I'm buzzing to be back in the England set-up. 

On injury rehab...

JB: When something like that happens three or four times, you've got to reassess what's going on. As a club we sat down - it was probably his [Moyes] idea more than anything - was to have a look at a different approach.

We found someone in Germany, I was there for three or four weeks to look at a holistic approach to the body. Fingers crossed it's put me in a good position.

I was managed through pre-season to give myself the best possible chance and build my minutes up to get me ready. I've played a certain amount of 90 minutes and my body knows it can cope with that.

The Club did a really good job with me over the summer to do that and put me in the best possible position.

On growing into leadership role at Everton...

Over the summer we had a conversation with the manager about getting another group of leaders together as we had a big leader leave us.

There's a couple of us who have grown into that role. It takes time but hopefully I can become a leader.

On Everton and England No.1 Jordan Pickford…

You've seen the amount of times he's played for England and in major tournaments and the performances he puts in, and he probably doesn't get the credit he deserves.

He's a fantastic keeper and a fantastic person as well.

It's a pleasure to play with him at Club level and every time he puts on an England shirt, he gives the best account of himself. He's been top for England and top for the Club, too.