Jarrad Branthwaite has been named in the latest England Under-21 squad along with fellow Cumbrian James Trafford.

Everton defender Branthwaite, from Wigton, has returned to the Under-21s having made his full England debut in the summer.

His involvement in Ben Futcher's squad for games against Spain and the Netherlands comes as Branthwaite looks to return to regular action at club level after an injury-affected start to the Premier League season.

The 21-year-old, who previously captained the Under-21s, will aim to use the games to further his full international chances.

Former Carlisle United defender Branthwaite has been limited to just three appearances for Everton so far in 2024/25 having missed the start of the campaign after a minor groin operation.

He joins regular Under-21s keeper Trafford, from Greysouthen, in the squad.

The Burnley keeper has long been established as the Under-21s' No1, and the ex-Carlisle academy player is one of three keepers in the latest squad along with Brighton & Hove Albion's Sheffield Wednesday loanee James Beadle, and Brentford's Matthew Cox.

There is a third Cumbrian connection in the squad in the shape of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, the son of former Carlisle United star Rory.

READ MORE: Cumbrian named in interim boss Carsley's last England squad

The Cumbrians are in a 24-man squad who will travel to Cadiz to take on Spain at La Linea de la Concepción on Friday, November 15.

Rory Delap's son Liam is also in the Under-21 squadRory Delap's son Liam is also in the Under-21 squad (Image: PA)

The Young Lions then take on the Netherlands at the Yanmar Stadium in Almere on Monday, November 18.

The games are part of England's build-up to next summer's European Championships in Slovakia, the Young Lions having recently confirmed their qualification.

They will be defending their title, having won the Euros last year, Trafford playing a starring role with a clean sheet in every game, including a last-minute penalty save in the final against Spain.

Branthwaite was also part of the Euro-winning squad, making one appearance in the tournament as England claimed glory under Lee Carsley, who is currently interim boss of the senior Three Lions side ahead of Thomas Tuchel's arrival in January.