Everton is grappling with more than just pre-season fitness worries this week.
The club has launched an internal investigation to find out who leaked private information about Jarrad Branthwaite’s latest injury, sparking frustration among the squad and management.
Branthwaite Suffers Hamstring Setback
The young defender, who manager David Moyes hopes will one day become a regular for England, suffered a hamstring injury during training on Wednesday.
This means he will miss Everton’s Premier League opener against Leeds United on Monday.
Moyes was tight-lipped about how long Branthwaite might be sidelined, but reports suggest the injury affects the same area of his right hamstring that he first aggravated in the final game of last season against Southampton.
Early estimates indicate he could be out until the end of September, marking a significant blow for the Toffees.
Club Furious Over Information Leak
While the injury itself is concerning, Moyes and Everton officials were even more frustrated that the news became public so quickly.
The club is determined to identify the ‘insider’ responsible and has vowed severe consequences for anyone found leaking sensitive squad details.
“Jarrad picked up an injury in training and unfortunately we are going to miss him.
These things happen,” Moyes said. “I don’t know how long he is going to be out, and I wouldn’t give it anyway.
I’m sure the insider within the club will give it out. We are going to find out who has given the news out. I’m unhappy with it. All managers would be the same.
It is certainly coming from within our building, and it is up to us to find out who it is – and we will do.”
Bright Spot as Grealish Joins the Squad
The leak was the only shadow over an otherwise positive week for Moyes, who welcomed England international Jack Grealish to the squad on a season-long loan from Manchester City.
Grealish could make his debut at Elland Road, and Moyes is excited about his arrival.
“He looks the same,” Moyes said with a smile. “Big calves! Will he get his debut on Monday? You’ll have to turn up and find out. I’ve seen him for a few days here, and he’s looked fabulous.
He’s in good shape. There’s lots of good things to like about Jack.”