EVERTON LEGENDS TONY BELLEW & JAMES TARKOWSKI LEFT ABSOLUTELY SPEECHLESS AND IN FLOODS OF TEARS AFTER BELOVED GOODISON HERO DROPS THE MOST JAW-DROPPING, LIFE-CHANGING NEWS YOU’LL HEAR ALL YEAR (You Won’t Believe What He Just Announced!)

Jarrad Branthwaite has endured a difficult spell at Everton, having yet to feature this season because of a long-term injury.

The England defender picked up the issue during pre-season and has been sidelined ever since, with a further setback last month prolonging his absence.

Although Everton do not expect him back until the early stages of 2026, Branthwaite appears to be making positive use of his time away from the pitch—at least judging by his recent social media posts.

Jarrad Branthwaite Announces Engagement

While his fitness problems remain a concern for Everton, the priority is ensuring he makes a full recovery.

Off the pitch, however, the 23-year-old has had something to celebrate, announcing his engagement to Isla Armstrong on Instagram on Sunday.

The post was quickly flooded with congratulatory messages from teammates past and present.

Defensive partner James Tarkowski wrote, “Love it, Jazza. Congratulations.” James Garner commented, “Congrats brother,” while Jake O’Brien added, “Congrats to you both.”

Former Everton forward Youssef Chermiti, now playing for Rangers, also sent his best wishes, and celebrity Everton supporter Tony Bellew responded with clapping emojis and a blue heart.

When Will Branthwaite Be Back?

Branthwaite’s latest indication regarding his recovery came just over a week ago when he shared a photo of himself wearing compression trousers.

That update suggests he is still some way off returning to full training at Finch Farm.

According to Premier Injuries, as of November 28, his most likely comeback date is January 31, when Everton face Brighton and Hove Albion.

Last season, Branthwaite made 33 appearances for the Toffees, despite missing the opening five gameweeks through injury before sitting out two more matches later in the campaign.

His performances were impressive, winning 63.4% of his ground duels and 59% of his aerial battles in the Premier League.

He has not played at all in the 2025–26 season, but the projected timeline gives him around eight weeks to return to training, build his sharpness, and push for a place in David Moyes’ starting XI.

Although his absence has been frustrating, Everton’s strong form without him offers some consolation as he works towards his long-awaited comeback.