Ashley Young: Jarrad Branthwaite should start for England, he is good enough to play in the Champions League
Ashley Young believes his Everton team-mate Jarrad Branthwaite is good enough to start for England at Euro 2024.
The 21-year-old has been Everton's standout player this season with a series of dazzling performances at the heart of the Toffees' defence.
His performances have sparked interest from Premier League big guns and earned him a place in Gareth Southgate's provisional squad. 33 man squad ahead of the euros.
Young believes Branthwaite had not only earned his place in the Three Lions squad, but the centre-back would not be out of place as a starter in Germany next month.
“I'm delighted for him because I know what he has contributed to our team. Not just on the field but off the field as well,” Young told talkSPORT.
“He's literally playing beyond his years. He is very confident, he feels comfortable playing football and I am delighted that he has been included in the team.
“For me, I could be a starter (for England)… definitely. I would be confident enough to say, “start with him.” If they're going to call him, he'd fit right in there. He takes no prisoners, he wants to play football.
“He can attack, head and score a goal too. He has all the qualities to be a great center back for many years.”
manchester united They have been linked with a move for Branthwaite this summer following a season hampered by injuries to their defensive line.
However, former United hero Young believes Branthwaite is ready to step up and test himself in a Champions League side.
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“I think he's ready to step up,” Young added. “There is obviously interest from other clubs who have finished in the top half of the table and rightly so because I know what type of player he is and how far he can go.
“If not with EvertonI can see him with a team that can offer him Champions League football.
“He is definitely a player who can play in the Champions League and in the big tournaments.”
