Everton and Premier League loanee Jarrad Branthwaite insists that he is still ‘absolutely open’ to staying at PSV Eindhoven despite Ruud van Nistelrooy’s shock exit from the Eredivisie giants.
The PSV supporters made their feelings clear following the sudden and unexpected departure of their legendary striker-turned-head coach last month, unfurling a banner in support of Van Nistelrooy during the 2-1, final day victory over AZ Alkmaar.
The 46-year-old, according to a statement from PSV, felt ‘there was not enough support within the club to continue longer’ before walking away (The Guardian).
Everton loanee Jarrad Branthwaite, however, was certainly not one of those who turned on the former Manchester United marksman.
“I had very good experiences with Ruud,” Branthwaite says, via Voetbal Primeur. “He is a great coach who clearly explains his vision to his team, making it clear to everyone what is expected of them. So that is very positive
“An absolute great. That man lives and breathes football. He had so much experience.”
Everton have a decision to make with Jarrad Branthwaite
Branthwaite, who joined PSV on loan last summer and helped beat rivals Ajax in the Dutch cup final, even puts Van Nistelrooy alongside Carlo Ancelotti when discussing the finest managers he has come across in his admittedly-short senior career.
Whether Sean Dyche one day joins that list, only time will tell.
Everton rejected a £15 million bid from PSV in January (Daily Mail). But Branthwaite still faces an uncertain future at Goodison Park, even if the departures of Yerry Mina and Conor Coady may open the door for a first-team spot under Dyche.
The 20-year-old snapped up from Carlisle United admitted in the spring that he would be tempted by a permanent move to the Netherlands. And his stance remains unchanged, regardless of Van Nistelrooy’s departure.
“That is always difficult to say as a professional football player. I am under contract with Everton, so it is their right not to want to sell me, of course,” he adds.
“I am absolutely open to staying at PSV, but the clubs have to decide together.”
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