Jamie Carragher has lavished praise on Jarrad Branthwaite, describing the Cumbrian defender as "pretty special".

Carragher devoted a section of Sky Sports coverage last night to analysing Everton's ex-Carlisle United star.

And he made clear his views that the 21-year-old from Wigton is a player of real Premier League quality and potential.

Ex-Liverpool and England man Carragher, speaking ahead of Everton's 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace, said: "What is special is the amount of centre-backs in the Premier League who are 21 or under.

"I remember being a young player myself going in at centre-back at Liverpool, and it's an unforgiving position.

"These lads are still learning the game, they're going to make mistakes. I had to go to full-back for the next three or four years and then go back.

"Branthwaite has been outstanding.

"I think this lad is pretty special. He's a big part of why Everton in my eyes have a good chance of staying up, him and his partnership with [James] Tarkowski."

England Under-21 captain Branthwaite has been a regular at the back for Sean Dyche's side this season, with his impressive performances seeing the Cumbrian linked with big-money transfers - from which United would benefit through a sell-on clause.

Carragher, meanwhile, was forgiving in his assessment of Branthwaite's recent contest with Manchester City star Erling Haaland.

Haaland's second goal in City's recent 2-0 win over the Toffees saw Branthwaite's role highlighted as he attempted to close down the Norwegian before being brushed off as Haaland scored.

"He actually had a great game. He's very cool, calm and composed," said Carragher.Ā "He's not just an out and out defender.

"The mistake he makes [with Haaland] is he just steps a yard too close, gets knocked off the ball and Erling Haaland finishes

"When you make a mistake in a game, if the guy scores, it's highlighted. Sometimes you need a bit of luck.

"If you make a mistake in a game, it doesn't mean you had a bad game. The game is 90 minutes. He had a great game against Manchester City, but if you make a mistake it's highlighted.

"You're playing against the best in the world. It's a brilliant experience. Him, alongside [Tarkowski] and Jordan Pickford behind them is what should give Everton hope that they can still stay in the Premier League."