Sean Dyche says Jarrad Branthwaite’s willingness to learn is behind his impressive form at Everton.

The Cumbrian defender has turned in a series of starring displays for the Toffees in the Premier League.

The ex-Carlisle United man, from Wigton, has grabbed his chance in the top flight so far this season.

And his manager at Goodison Park says the 21-year-old’s “open-minded” approach is helping him.

"He is working hard at his game. He is listening. He has been very open-minded and is enjoying his football," said Dyche.

England Under-21 international Branthwaite turned in a man of the match performance as Everton won 1-0 at West Ham United on Sunday.

His alert interception had a part in the only goal of the game, scored by Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Dyche, in an interview with Sky Sports, said he has been helping Branthwaite with the detail of the game – but also not laying on the advice too heavily.

He said: “A lot of it is about just being alive in that defensive zone. Not just the first press but that second press. Are you pressing to win a ball? Once it has been passed, are you driving back into the key areas? Things like that. You want to fast-track that learning.

News and Star: Jarrad Branthwaite has come in for praise from Everton boss Sean DycheJarrad Branthwaite has come in for praise from Everton boss Sean Dyche (Image: PA)

"We are still keeping the coaching level quite low, just letting him learn as he is going."

Branthwaite started the season on the bench but soon pushed his way into the Everton team.

He has impressed after a successful loan spell at PSV Eindhoven last season.

Clubs including Manchester United and Manchester City have been linked with the big Cumbrian but he recently signed a new long-term deal at Everton.

"He missed two-and-a-half weeks of pre-season. That would have maybe given him the opportunity to push on and start the season,” added Dyche.

"Once he got fit, he has taken the chance."