Natalie Sawyer and Tony Cascarino found themselves thoroughly impressed by Jarrad Branthwaite as the Everton defender scored during a 1-1 draw with Brighton on Saturday (24 February). This 21-year-old has piqued the interest of international clubs, and his goal will only drive up his value.
Branthwaite broke the mold with his goal, which was a beautifully curled shot rather than the typical header associated with defenders. Sawyer, speaking live via talkSPORT, described it as a finish that any striker would be proud of, as Branthwaite took advantage of a Jordan Pickford free-kick that left Brighton unable to clear the ball.
Tony Cascarino added: “The defenders union will be all over this, saying ‘Yes, we can finish’. Normally they blast it over, but it was a great finish.”
Described as an £80million player by Simon Jordan, Branthwaite’s latest goal has only increased his value at Goodison Park. Despite interest from Chelsea, Arsenal, and Real Madrid, Branthwaite scored his second goal of the season in a spectacular fashion, leaving Bart Verbruggen no chance as he found the back of the net.
Unfortunately for Everton, Lewis Dunk managed to score an equalizer deep into injury time, denying the Toffees the full three points against a 10-man Brighton.
Sean Dyche will be disappointed with the draw and should see it as two points lost rather than one gained, especially considering Everton’s precarious position near the relegation zone due to their 10-point deduction. They are now just one point above the relegation zone, having played one game more than Luton Town, who are in 18th place.
