Jarrad Branthwaite has come in for praise from a former England and Everton star after his impressive displays in the Premier League.

The Cumbrian defender has started the Toffees' last three games and has caught the eye with his showings.

While Everton have struggled at the start of the campaign, Branthwaite's efforts at the back have formed a plus point for Sean Dyche's team.

And ex-Goodison Park midfielder Trevor Steven, who won 36 England caps in the 1980s and 1990s, has paid tribute to the ex-Carlisle United player's performances.

“Yeah, he’s impressed me, Branthwaite," said Steven, speaking on TalkSport.

"He has certainly learned a lot on loan.

"He’s got a lot of game minutes under his belt now and going to PSV [Eindhoven last season] was a great move for him.

“He has impressed me in the early stages of the season.”

Branthwaite, from Wigton, started the campaign on the bench but has quickly pushed his way into Dyche's XI.

He has started consecutive top-flight games against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Sheffield United and Arsenal.

Dyche also highlighted Branthwaite's display in the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal as a highlight for the Merseyside outfit.

News and Star: Branthwaite holds off Arsenal's Gabriel JesusBranthwaite holds off Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus (Image: PA)

"I thought Jarrad was good again - a young centre-half earning his spurs," said the Everton boss.

Branthwaite now has 13 Premier League appearances to his name for Everton since his move from Carlisle back in January 2020.

The 21-year-old will be back in action when the Toffees head to Brentford in the Premier League this weekend.

Branthwaite's outing against Arsenal saw him make a quick return to action after he pulled out of the England Under-21 squad last week.

Treatment for a minor groin injury was cited as the reason why Branthwaite did not get the opportunity to add to his one U21 cap.

Branthwaite, meanwhile, has spoken about the challenges and benefits of his loan at PSV last season.

Speaking on Everton's website, the Cumbrian said: "The first six months I found difficult. I was away from home and on my own, different language, new people.

"It was difficult but I think that’s part of football. That was the choice I made and looking back now it was probably one of the best choices I ever did make - going over there and playing the games I've played, helping mature as a footballer, coming back and being ready."