Branthwaite explains 'different' injury recovery as Everton star sets new target

Saturday's friendly clash saw Blues defender Branthwaite return to the pitch for the first time since being taken off on a stretcher in the second half of Everton's Merseyside derby defeat to Liverpool at Hill Dickinson Stadium in April.

That blow proved to be the final straw following a series of hamstring issues that decimated Branthwaite's campaign and ruined any hopes he had of forcing himself into the England World Cup squad.

But he managed to play the first 45 minutes of the goalless draw at the Toughsheet Community Stadium in a first appearance of pre-season.

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Speaking after the game, Branthwaite revealed how he had taken a different path in his recovery following previous hamstring issues.

"It was good," said the centre-back when speaking to Everton TV after the match.

"After the Liverpool game it was tough, and we had to re-evaluate what we were doing and try different things.

"I headed out to Germany to see some people out there and do my rehab there for a few weeks. It was a different way of looking at things, alongside the club as well, the two parties together, and hopefully we've resolved some issues and hopefully I can kick on now."

Branthwaite is now looking forward to the remainder of Everton's pre-season programme, which continues with a trip to Stoke on Tuesday. The Blues host Crystal Palace on the opening weekend of the Premier League season on August 22.

"I'm feeling good," continued Branthwaite. "It's just about managing the way through pre-season, not pushing myself too hard and also getting the work in when I feel good.

"The ultimate thing is to be ready for the first game of the season, have a positive season and put last season behind me."

On the draw with Bolton, he added: "Pre-season games are always tough they're a good side and they're getting ready for the start of their season quite soon.

"It was a good challenge. It's good for us."

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