NEWS FLASH: Sean Dyche has officially announced the signing of an exceptional ace.

BRANTHWAITE SIGNS LONG-TERM EVERTON CONTRACT

Jarrad Branthwaite has committed his long-term future to Everton by signing a new four-year contract with the Club until the end of June 2027.

The talented 21-year-old defender joined the Blues from hometown team Carlisle United in January 2020 and, following loan spells at Blackburn Rovers and PSV Eindhoven, has become a regular starter for Sean Dyche’s Men’s Senior Team this season, producing a string of impressive displays.

Branthwaite helped England Under-21s win the European Championships in the summer and is rated as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.

The centre-back says the support he has received from Evertonians was an important factor in him pledging his future to “this magnificent football club”, while the belief shown in him by fans, manager Dyche and Director of Football, Kevin Thelwell, has given him “massive confidence” to thrive with Everton.

“The stature of the Club, how much of a family it is at Everton and how I just love playing here in front of the fans were key reasons for me signing,” Branthwaite told evertontv. “To sign this new contract was to show the commitment I have for the Club and show how much it means to me to play for Everton.

“Since I joined, I’ve felt a connection with the Club. The fans have been really good with me. For the first game I played, the cheer I got when my name was read out just gave me massive confidence to go out there and play my best game.

“Since I got in the team, the fans have shown me real support and that gives me confidence, especially for a young player. I can’t thank them enough.”

Dyche has started Branthwaite in the heart of his defence for each of Everton’s past five Premier League matches.

The manager’s faith in his abilities became clear shortly after Dyche was appointed Blues manager in January when he called the promising young defender while he was still on loan at PSV.

“I think it shows the type of person he is, ringing me while I was on loan with a different team,” said Branthwaite. “It shows the care he has for the players and how he wants to have everyone together as a team. When I came back to the Club, we had a chat and it was just about if I train as hard as I can and show the quality I have, then I’ll get a chance.

“When the manager and Kevin Thelwell have full confidence in you, it makes you feel like you’re welcome here and I know I can go on the pitch when the manager puts me out there and he has full belief in me. It’s a massive factor in signing the contract.

“In the games I’ve had, I’ve given everything I’ve got and performed to a good level. I think once the points start coming our way which our performances have deserved more from, we can push up the table as well.”