Everton Duo Likely to Miss Aston Villa Match Due to Injury – Report
Everton manager Sean Dyche has downplayed the chances of Jarrad Branthwaite and Nathan Patterson being fit to face Aston Villa.
Following the 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth over the weekend, Sean Dyche confirmed that two of his defenders are not yet ready to participate in a behind-closed-doors friendly during the upcoming international break.
According to the Liverpool Echo (2 September), neither player is expected to return for Everton’s match against Aston Villa in two weeks.
Everton’s fourth Premier League game against a strong Aston Villa side comes after a two-week break, with Dyche’s team having already suffered three consecutive losses, including a collapse against Bournemouth.
When asked about Jarrad Branthwaite and Nathan Patterson’s availability for the friendly during the break, Dyche responded, “They are not there yet.”
Everton desperately need Jarrad Branthwaite back and fully fit for the Aston Villa challenge.
The defensive stats at Goodison Park are concerning just three games into the season, with only two goals scored and ten conceded, including six in just two home games.
The 3-2 loss to Bournemouth, where Everton squandered a two-goal lead after 86 minutes, highlights their fragile defense.
Branthwaite’s return is crucial, as the center-back had an outstanding previous season, earning international recognition and a £70 million valuation [James Ducker, 15 June].
Patterson’s return would also address significant issues at right-back, where Dyche has had to rely on academy player Roman Dixon following Ashley Young’s red card on the opening day.
While new signing Jake O’Brien is ready to step in and could form a solid partnership with Branthwaite, Dyche is unlikely to have the luxury of such choices for the match at Villa Park in two weeks.
