Injury has seen Cumbrian star Jarrad Branthwaite pull out of the England Under-21 squad.

A groin problem has seen the Everton defender withdraw from the squad to face Luxembourg next week.

Everton say the issue is "minor" and connected to the summer when Branthwaite was part of the Under-21 squad that won the European Championships.

The problem has cost the 21-year-old from Wigton the chance to add to his one Under-21 cap to date.

A statement from Everton said of the former Carlisle United defender: "Jarrad Branthwaite has withdrawn from the England Under-21 squad for their upcoming EURO qualifier to undergo planned treatment with Everton for a minor groin issue sustained in the summer while on international duty.

"The 21-year-old Blues defender was called up by the young Lions for a match away to Luxembourg on Monday 11 September but it was agreed he would remain at Finch Farm for treatment with the Club’s medical staff.

"Branthwaite, who has started the past two Premier League matches for Sean Dyche’s side, is expected to be fit after the current international break."

Branthwaite was named in the latest Under-21 squad by head coach Lee Carsley along with fellow Cumbrian, Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford.

Liam Delap, son of ex-Carlisle United favourite Rory, is also in the squad.

Kick-off in Luxembourg on Monday is 5pm UK time.

Branthwaite, having returned to Everton from last season's impressive loan spell with PSV Eindhoven, has quickly pushed his way into Dyche's team in the top flight this term.

He has started in games against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United and attracted plaudits for his displays.

The young Cumbrian continues to be the subject of transfer speculation, with fresh reports claiming a number of Champions League clubs are keeping tabs on Branthwaite.

The Athletic says several clubs are watching the Wigton star, with previous reports having linked him with clubs such as Manchester United, Liverpool and West Ham United, as well as PSV.