Everton star a major doubt to face Newcastle United after training ground incident

After recovering from a groin injury, the centre-back made his first appearance of the season last Saturday and it coincided with the Toffees’ first win as they beat Crystal Palace 2-1 at Goodison Park.

Branthwaite had been in line to retain his place against Newcastle but is understood to have picked up a quad issue in training this week. As per Mail Sport, the injury is not said to be serious and, if he were to miss out, it is hoped he would return soon after the international break.

Should the 22-year-old lose his fitness battle, Sean Dyche will likely start Michael Kane alongside James Tarkowski.

Branthwaite’s return had led to a renewal in speculation about his future. Manchester United attempted to sign him in the summer while Liverpool are reportedly showing interest.

“I think I said in the summer that any player, it's a worldwide market now, it's not just about one player,” Dyche said during his pre-match press conference.

“The way the game changed, certainly in Europe, the transfer situation has opened up.It's not a surprise good players are linked with other clubs. I said in the summer he'll be staying here and he is so that's good.

“The club has a situation it is still looking upon. If new ownership goes through, that might change things financially but we don't know that yet. We'll just have to wait and see.

“I didn't really speak to him about it (interest in the summer), he's still here. I'm not going to sit there and chat endlessly about stories in the paper which 99 per cent are not true so there's no point. He seems fine other than being injured, which has been a blow to him, he's been fine.”