Erik ten Hag's chance to scout Manchester United transfer target Ruud van Nistelrooy loves

Much of Erik ten Hag's focus on Sunday will be on his Manchester United players but the Dutchman could be forgiven for keeping an eye on Jarrad Branthwaite tomorrow.

United kick off a busy winter schedule with a trip to Goodison Park and a Premier League clash against Everton. The home side will be in a defiant mood on Merseyside, having been docked 10 points for breaching profit and sustainability rules.

That punishment has plunged Sean Dyche's side into the bottom three but it says much about their improved form this season that they are expected to survive. They have won three of their last five and defensive strength has been at the heart of the success.

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Branthwaite has made fleeting appearances for Everton in past seasons but this is his first campaign of consistent football at Goodison, partnering the experienced James Tarkowski. The 21-year-old was sent out on loan last term and was hugely impressive under head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy in the Netherlands at PSV Eindhoven.

"He is a great talent," Van Nistelrooy said of Branthwaite last season. "The boy is young, but he has a future. He is good on the ball, can play on the left or the right of centre-back because he is two-footed. He has height and speed, so he is very complete. He has height and speed, so he is very complete."

Those words could well act as a glowing endorsement for Branthwaite, whose quality could once again be on show when United come to town. Ten Hag will hope he can test the young defender out with the physical prowess of Rasmus Hojlund, should he pass a late fitness test.

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