Ashley Young believes Everton teammate Jarrad Branthwaite is good enough to start for England at Euro 2024.
The 21-year-old has been Everton’s standout performer this season with a host of dazzling displays in the heart of the Toffees’ defence.
His performances have attracted interest from the Premier League’s big boys whilst earning him a spot in Gareth Southgate’s provisional 33-man squad ahead of the Euros.
Young believes that not only had Branthwaite earned his place in the Three Lions squad but the centre-back would not be out of place as a starter in Germany next month.
“I’m over the moon for him because I know what he’s brought to our team. Not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well,” Young told talkSPORT.
“He’s literally playing above his years. He’s so confident, he’s comfortable playing football and I’m delighted for him that he’s been included in the squad.
“For me, he could start [for England]… definitely. I’d be confident enough to say, start him. If he’s going to be called upon he’d fit straight in there. He doesn’t take any prisoners, he wants to play football.
“He can tackle, he can head it and come up with a goal as well. He’s got all the attributes to be a great centre-half for many years.”
Manchester United have been linked with a move for Branthwaite this summer following a season hampered by injuries to their backline.
However, former United hero Young believes Branthwaite is ready to make the step up and test himself in a team playing Champions League football.
“I think he’s ready for the step up,” Young added. “Obviously there’s interest from other club’s who have finished in the top half of the table and rightly so because I know what kind of player he is and where he can get to.
“If it’s not with Everton, I can see him with a team that can offer him Champions League football.
“He’s definitely a player that can play in the Champions League and the big tournaments.”