Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite says he wants to “keep developing as a player” as he looks to build on a good personal season that ended with his England debut.
Branthwaite, 22, played a key role in the Blues finishing last season with the fourth-best defensive record in the Premier League and was the target of interest from Manchester United This summer.
“It’s just about taking what I learned from last season and the season before that and putting it all together and carrying on this season,” Branthwaite told club media.
“Last season, playing all the games I did helped me improve my performance and get the experience I needed. I’m going to take that into this season and keep learning.
“For any young player, it’s about playing as many games as possible. It gives you the experience you need.”
Despite defensive solidity in Sean Dyche’s first full campaign in charge, Everton only confirmed their security at the end of the season, after being deducted a total of 10 points for breaching Premier League financial rules.
“When you have a good defensive record it gives you confidence going into the new season,” added Branthwaite.
“That’s how the coach prepared us to give us the best possible chance of winning games.
“It will be the same this season and hopefully we can get some wins early and build some momentum soon.”
