The international break is now coming to an end and England just about managed to escape suffering two defeats at the hands of Brazil and Belgium.
Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Brazil was a disappointment but Gareth Southgate and co had a chance to put it right against Belgium on Tuesday night.
England had to twice come from behind to claim a 2-2 draw at Wembley Stadium with Youri Tielemans twice putting Belgium ahead.
Ivan Toney’s penalty hauled England level in the first half before Jude Bellingham popped up with an injury-time leveller.
There were no points on offer but England will be relived to have avoided two successive defeats as the plans for Euro 2024 ramp up.
With a number of players out injured, this was a real chance for other players to step up and take their chance.
Toney, Kobbie Mainoo, Jarrod Bowen and Anthony Gordon all featured, pushing forward their claims for spots at Euro 2024.
There was no appearance for Jarrad Branthwaite though, with the Everton defender missing out on a first cap…
Ian Wright on Jarrad Branthwaite
Branthwaite was called up to the England squad for the first time off the back of some superb displays in the Everton back line.
Big, strong, quick, comfortable on the ball and – crucially – left-footed, Branthwaite ticks the boxes of what England are seeking.
Branthwaite didn’t appear against Brazil though and even when John Stones went down injured against Belgium, Joe Gomez came on in his place.
Ezri Konsa and Lewis Dunk saw out the game as the centre back pairing, meaning Branthwaite wasn’t given a chance to shine.
That may leave Branthwaite struggling to make the Euro 2024 squad but pundit Ian Wright has been left baffled.
Wright has taken to social media to state that Branthwaite not even playing a single minute ‘doesn’t make sense’.
Wright feels that this was a ‘perfect opportunity’ to take a look at Branthwaite ahead of Euro 2024 and can’t really understand why he wasn’t given an opportunity.
Branthwaite won’t be too disheartened and will go back to shining for Everton.
The former Carlisle United talent is on the radar of many other clubs with HITC Football understanding that Real Madrid, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle United are all monitoring him.
A big move may come in the future for Branthwaite and a starring England role surely isn’t far away despite his disappointing international break.