Everton have only one option with Michael Keane’s future after latest injury news
Everton have been struck by the news that Jarrad Branthwaite has suffered another significant injury to his hamstring.
The 23-year-old has been out for the majority of the season, but returned in January and has looked to be back to his best.
But in the closing stages of Everton’s 2-1 Merseyside derby loss to Liverpool on Sunday, Branthwaite was forced off injured.
The defender landed awkwardly after an aerial challenge and immediately looked to be in severe pain.
The England international was stretchered off and it has now been reported that Everton’s injury issues are to continue, with the centre-back suffering another significant hamstring problem.
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VISIT THE EVERTON INJURY HUBEverton spurred into Michael Keane action
Michael Keane has proved his worth to Everton this season, having been so close to leaving the club on a free transfer last summer.
The Toffees eventually tied the 33-year-old down to a one-year extension, and it is a good thing they did.
| Michael Keane | Stats – Premier League 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 28 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Tackles | 30 |
| Recoveries | 76 |
| Clearances | 175 |
| Duels won | 129 |
The former England international was ever-present in the first half of the season, making 28 Premier League appearances over the course of the campaign so far.
And despite his age, Keane has been superb for Everton, providing a consistently high-quality option for David Moyes and standing as one of the key facets behind an unlikely charge for European football.
The former Manchester United man will be needed for the remaining five games, too, after Toffees insider, the Bobble, reported that Branthwaite may need to undergo surgery after suffering another significant injury.
Luckily, the contract Keane signed last summer reportedly contained an option for a further year, with it now being absolutely vital that Everton trigger it.
Everton may seek summer solutions
Branthwaite carries huge trust and admiration around Everton, and decision-makers will be patient with him as he recovers.
But there is understandable concern about the Toffees’ options going into next season.
Keane and Tarkowski have a combined age of 66 and represent Moyes’ only other options, considering that Jake O’Brien plays at right-back.
Especially if Everton qualify for European football next season, depth is an absolute must for transfer chiefs this summer.
Should Branthwaite be ruled out for another six months, the Toffees cannot chance injuries to either of their other options.
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