Michael Keane could solve Everton "massive issue" v Nottingham Forest

HomeComment Fri 19 April 2024 20:10, UK

Sean Dyche must bite the bullet and throw Michael Keane into the starting XI as Everton prepare to face Nottingham Forest on Sunday (21 April).

Just two points above the relegation zone after their most recent points deduction, the Toffees are in a desperate situation as they battle against the threat of relegation for the third successive season.

Everton are surrounded by Brentford, Forest and Luton Town at the foot of the table, and claiming all three points at Goodison Park on Sunday could be vital for their survival.

Though the 6-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Monday 15 April was a harrowing result, the goals conceded will be far from Dyche's biggest worry ahead of the Forest clash.

Jarrad Branthwaite was substituted off due to injury against the Blues, and the former's absence would be a major blow for Everton. Dominic Calvert-Lewin was also unavailable due to injury.

Reacting to the defender's injury, Sam Matterface said via talkSPORT on Tuesday (16 April): "They've got a massive issue with Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Not only did he go through that very long period without scoring goals, he is injured again.

"It's a hamstring injury, but they also picked up an injury to Patterson, an injury to Coleman and an injury to Branthwaite who is their best defender."

Jarrad Branthwaite would be devastating loss for Everton v Nottingham Forest Having created a formidable with James Tarkowski in defence, Branthwaite has been an incredible addition to the Everton starting XI this season.

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Following a major breakthrough on loan with PSV Eindhoven in the previous campaign, the 21-year-old has slotted straight into Dyche's plans and would certainly be missed if he were absent against Forest.

Despite conceding six goals to Chelsea, and Everton down the bottom of the Premier League table, the collapse at Stamford Bridge was extremely unlike Dyche's team this season.

Even with the goals added to their league record, only Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool have conceded fewer in the Premier League so far. That is not a team that deserves to be relegated.

Jarrad Branthwaite left the field due to injury as Everton lost 6-0 to Chelsea With remaining matches against Forest, Brentford, Luton and Sheffield United, Everton have every chance to save themselves from the Championship.

However, if Branthwaite is not 100 per cent fit to face Forest, Keane will be needed by Dyche to step up, despite just four Premier League starts to his name this season.

In other Everton news, Jarrad Branthwaite is set to quit Goodison Park after what he said recently.