Sean Dyche Opens Up on Jarrad Branthwaite’s Injury Setback and Everton’s Road to Recovery
Everton FC manager Sean Dyche has been facing a challenging start to the season, with the team struggling to find their footing in the Premier League. However, one of the biggest blows to the team’s chances has been the injury to breakout star Jarrad Branthwaite. The 22-year-old defender has been sidelined since his England debut on June 3, and Dyche has now revealed that his rehabilitation has taken longer than expected.
Branthwaite’s injury was initially described as a “minor groin issue,” but it has proven to be a more significant problem than first thought. Dyche explained that the player has experienced “a couple of hiccups along the way” in his rehabilitation, which has slowed down his return to the team. The Everton manager emphasized that these setbacks are not uncommon with secondary injuries, but they can be frustrating for both the player and the team.
Dyche stressed the importance of not rushing players back into the team, citing his experience with fast-tracking players leading to difficulties in finding form. He believes that players need time to regain their fitness and sharpness before returning to the starting lineup. “Fast-tracking players in my experience doesn’t end well,” Dyche said. “We’ve got to fast-track but cleverly fast-track, not just pushing them through games programs they’re not capable of.”
Branthwaite and Patterson’s injuries are a cautionary tale. Nathan Patterson has also been sidelined with a longer-term injury. Dyche explained that Patterson’s injury is “not as bad” as Branthwaite’s, but it still requires caution. The Everton manager believes that both players need time to recover properly, and rushing them back into the team could do more harm than good.
One of the few bright spots in Everton’s season so far has been the signing of Orel Mangala. The Belgian midfielder made his debut off the bench against Aston Villa and impressed Dyche with his awareness of the Premier League and international experience. Dyche believes that Mangala can bring a new level of quality to the team, and his experience will be invaluable in the coming weeks.
As the team prepares to face Southampton in the Carabao Cup, Dyche will be hoping that his players can build on their recent performances and start to climb the Premier League table. With patience and careful rehabilitation, Everton may yet turn their season around.