Jarrad Branthwaite has been called up to the England squad.

The Cumbrian defender has been selected by Gareth Southgate for this month's friendlies against Brazil and Belgium at Wembley.

Former Carlisle United defender Branthwaite, from Wigton, has earned his first senior international call-up after starring for Everton in the Premier League this season.

The 21-year-old's displays have caught the eye of national team boss Southgate.

And Branthwaite, who has captained the Under-21s this season, could now get the chance to make a late run for a place in the Three Lions squad for this summer's European Championships.

News and Star: Branthwaite came through the academy ranks at Carlisle before joining Everton in 2020Branthwaite came through the academy ranks at Carlisle before joining Everton in 2020 (Image: Barbara Abbott)

Southgate said Branthwaite was "in on merit" and that he was looking forward to working with him at close quarters.

The former Blues academy product has enjoyed a terrific season with Everton in the top-flight.

He has become a regular in Sean Dyche's defence having impressed on loan at PSV Eindhoven last season.

Former Nelson Thomlinson School boy Branthwaite joined Everton from Carlisle in January 2020 and his recent displays have seen him linked with a host of top clubs such as Real Madrid and Manchester United. 

England take on Brazil on Saturday, March 23 and Belgium on Tuesday, March 26, with Branthwaite in with a chance of being Cumbria's first England international since Dean Henderson faced the Republic of Ireland in November 2020.

Branthwaite is one of two new call-ups along with Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon.

Southgate has also recalled Liverpool defender Joe Gomez and Brentford striker Ivan Toney.

Branthwaite will link up with the international squad at St George's Park next Tuesday ahead of the double-header.