Moyes Justifies Branthwaite’s Left‑Back Shift, Fans React

In a pre‑match press conference, Everton manager David Moyes explained that Jarrad Branthwaite can play at left‑back just as well as his natural centre‑back role, citing the club’s rotation policy and the player’s versatility. Branthwaite, 23, has made 80 Premier League appearances, 72 of which were starts at centre‑back.

The comments drew ire from Everton supporters, who felt the move was a ploy to keep Michael Keane in the starting XI. Branthwaite’s recent stints at left‑back against Manchester United and Brighton, and his brief appearance at right‑back against Fulham, were highlighted by Moyes as evidence of his adaptability.