“Despite that” – Baised Arsenal Legend shows clear HATRED towards Villa GEM by advicing Southgate to give Arsenal average player England debut ahead of the Aston Villa messiah
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.”
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.
