Everton have made an unwanted habit in recent years of shoddy recruitment and signing players who do not make a return on big investments. But they now have a diamond in the rough at the back to buck that trend.
Jarrad Branthwaite was signed for £1million from Carlisle three years ago and is slowly maturing into one of the most complete young defenders in the Premier League. At the rate he is developing this season, it would be no surprise to see a Big Six club come calling soon.
Manchester United have already shown an interest in the 6ft 5in left-sided defender, but Everton fans will hope they can keep Branthwaite for a season or two more at least, with him proving a formidable defensive partner to experienced James Tarkowski.