Jarrad Branthwaite eyes strong Everton comeback after injury return

The 24-year-old centre-back played the opening 45 minutes at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, marking his first appearance since suffering a serious hamstring injury in April's Merseyside derby defeat to Liverpool. The setback brought an early end to a campaign that was repeatedly disrupted by hamstring problems.

Branthwaite admitted it was a relief to be back on the pitch after several months on the sidelines.

"It was good to get back out there. It's been a long time since the Liverpool game last season," he told Everton TV.

The defender revealed his latest rehabilitation programme included time in Germany and followed a different approach to previous recoveries. He believes the changes have helped him return in better condition.

"I'm feeling good. It's just about managing the work through pre-season, not pushing myself too hard," he said. "It's about getting minutes when I feel good and building up gradually."

Branthwaite also missed Everton's opening pre-season friendly against Dundee as a precaution, with manager David Moyes and the club taking no unnecessary risks with one of their key defenders.

The England international's priority is now to build his fitness steadily ahead of the new Premier League campaign and make sure he is fully prepared for the opening fixture.

"My aim is to put last season behind me, keep building my minutes and be ready for the start of the season," he said.

Everton begin their Premier League campaign at home to Crystal Palace on 22 August, while Branthwaite is expected to increase his playing time when the Toffees face Stoke City in another pre-season friendly on Tuesday.

His return is a major boost for Moyes, who will be hoping the defender can enjoy an injury-free campaign after Everton successfully kept hold of him despite previous transfer interest and secured him on a new contract last year.