David Moyes says Jarrad Branthwaite trumps John Stones in two areas from when he was at Everton…
Everton have had some brilliant defensive talents over the years and Jarrad Branthwaite is firmly a part of that.
Branthwaite has become a stalwart at the back for Everton and comes as no surprise why interest is being shown.
It’s a clear transfer saga that will take place in the summer, as Everton are in charge of Branthwaite’s future.
His performances in such a small amount of time has proven he’s a gem, and the Toffees are lucky to have him.
This has brought up conversations with him and John Stones, who was also an emerging talent at Goodison Park.
Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Photo by Daniel Chesterton/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
David Moyes on Jarrad Branthwaite’s comparison with John Stones at Everton
Of course, Stones eventually made his switch away from Everton, securing a £47.5m move to Man City.
It’s known how good Stones is, but Branthwaite certainly has a very high ceiling and speaks volumes as to why he’s so sought after.
In something Everton fans don’t want to hear, but David Moyes hindered at selling Branthwaite, as there’s no denying the fee for the young centre-back could be huge for the club.
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At the time, Stones’ exit helped the club, but after Moyes’ comments in his pre-match press conference, Branthwaite could no doubt double Stones’ fee.
“I think that Jarrad’s bigger, quicker than John,” Moyes said.
“John was really good on the ball, and also played a couple of positions at the time, played at full-back. I’m not saying that Jarrad hasn’t played left-back, but he (Stones) played full-back, and he played in the midfield for Barnsley before we signed him as well.
“But it’s quite a good comparison. There’s a lot of similarities, but they are not identical players.”
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How Everton’s Branthwaite compares to Stones
With their clearly being a gap in age between the two, it seems quite a disadvantage for Branthwaite.
However, with both players being an emerging talent on the scene at 22, it shows how good the comparison truly is.
Branthwaite at 22 – Premier League 24/25 Stones at 22 – Premier League 16/17
Games played 24 27
Pass accuracy % 81.8% 91.7%
Accurate long balls 56 60
Dribbled past 7 7
Interceptions 23 30
Duels won % 62.1% 69.3%.
Although Stones comes out on top, it’s clear to see there is a comparison to be had, especially as the City defender has three more games on Branthwaite.
It’s clear both share the same status at this age of being one of the most valued centre-backs in the game, and although Everton could be gearing up to sell Branthwaite, they’ll do what they can to keep hold of him.
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