Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite injured a hamstring in training, could be out until the end of September | OneFootball

Everton fear Jarrad Branthwaite could be out until the end of September after he sustained a hamstring injury during routine sprinting drills, according to the Daily Mail.

The Everton star recently returned to action after limping off in the last game at Goodison Park against Southampton in May following an injury to the hamstring in his right thigh.

Branthwaite has injured the same thigh. Everton could now be forced to make a move for another centre-back before the transfer window closes..

Losing Branthwaite at the start of a new campaign is the last thing Everton wanted as they prepare for life at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

They convinced the England international to sign a contract extension earlier in the summer, and he will be gutted to be missing the beginning of the season.

He needs to be playing regularly this season to boost his chances of going to the World Cup with the Three Lions next year.

Everton have signed Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Charly Alcaraz, Thierno Barry, Mark Travers and Adam Aznou this summer.

Manchester City attacker Jack Grealish has also joined on loan, and more additions are expected.

Everton begin the new Premier League season with a trip to Elland Road to take on Leeds United on Monday.

Their first home game is against Brighton & Hove Albion the following Sunday.