Ian Wright cannot believe Gareth Southgate did not give one Arsenal target his England debut against either Brazil or Belgium.
England fell to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Brazil before recording a 2-2 draw against Belgium, with new faces such as Ezri Konsa, Jarrod Bowen, Lewis Dunk, Ivan Toney and Kobbie Mainoo getting a proper chance on the international scene.
However, Ian Wright feels there was one player who Gareth Southgate really should have given some minutes to – a man Arsenal reportedly want to sign…
Ian Wright baffled by Gareth Southgate treatment of Jarrad Branthwaite
Well, the Arsenal legend is baffled by the fact Jarrad Branthwaite did not get a chance to make his debut for England during the international break.
The Everton No.32 received a call up as a result of his stunning performances under Sean Dyche so far this season – the Daily Mail believe Arsenal have been in touch with the Toffees to ask what it would take to sign the central defender.
Despite that, it was Konsa and Dunk who received opportunities, although Wright feels Branthwaite deserved a shot too.
The 60-year-old wrote: “How did Jarrad Branthwaite get zero minutes across the two friendlies. Doesn’t make sense. Perfect opportunity to have a look at him.”
We strongly agree.
Arsenal could actually benefit
Branthwaite has made 31 appearances across all competitions for Everton so far this season – scoring two goals – and is now being regarded as one of the most precocious defensive talents on the planet.
Even Real Madrid are monitoring his performances – with Everton now valuing the man from Carlisle at £75m.
Surely – in that respect – it would have been worth giving him some playing time in meaningless friendlies against Brazil and Belgium?
Southgate now has no other chance to use Branthwaite ahead of UEFA EURO 2024 this summer, so the 21-year-old is highly unlikely to get an opportunity at the tournament, barring an injury crisis in defence.
Nevertheless, this disappointing development could actually work in Arsenal’s favour.
Had Branthwaite impressed for England during this international break, Everton may have added a few more million pounds onto his already significant price tag, while more clubs could have also joined the race for his signature.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Arsenal continue to monitor the centre-back.
The post 'Perfect': Ian Wright says Gareth Southgate should have given £75m Arsenal target his England debut appeared first on TBR Football.