Everton centre‑half Branthwaite limped off the pitch on a stretcher in the 87th minute of the Merseyside derby, leaving the ground in tears after a 2‑1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield. The 23‑year‑old’s hamstring snapped, forcing him out for the remainder of the campaign.

Branthwaite had already missed the opening five months of the season after hamstring surgery in October, returning in January. The latest strain is unrelated to the earlier issue, and scans show no need for further operation. Everton will let him begin rehab at Finch Farm, the club’s training ground.

The injury cuts into Branthwaite’s hopes of representing England at the World Cup in the United States, where the Three Lions begin on 17 June against Croatia. Though he earned a senior debut in a friendly versus Bosnia‑Herzegovina two years ago, he was omitted from the 26‑man Euro 2024 squad while the squad finalises late.

Everton sit tenth in the Premier League, just three points behind sixth‑placed Brighton as they chase European qualification. Branthwaite’s absence will test the defensive depth of a side already grappling with injury setbacks. The club must balance health and performance in the final stretch of the season as the title race tightens over the season.