Jarrad Branthwaite’s season is over and his World Cup hopes have been dashed after a scan revealed the extent of his hamstring injury.

The Everton defender was taken off on a stretcher during the closing stages of Sunday’s 2-1 defeat by Liverpool.

And, while the problem is not as bad as first feared, Daily Mail Sport understands Branthwaite is facing around two months on the sidelines. There is hope he will be back for pre-season.

The 23-year-old’s loss is a huge blow for Everton boss David Moyes, given the centre back’s recent form. He was also being touted for inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad ahead of the World Cup.

Branthwaite missed the first half of the season because of a hamstring issue and underwent surgery in October. The new injury is in the same leg but not thought to be in the exact same area. 

This has given hope to a speedier recovery than the five months he missed earlier in the campaign.

Jarrad Branthwaite was forced off with an injury in the Merseyside derby 

Speaking after the Merseyside derby, in which Branthwaite was forced off at 1-1, Moyes said: ‘Jarrad was probably the best player on the pitch. I thought he played so well. 

‘I’m worried it could be serious, but we’ll have to wait and see. We’ve not had any results.’

Everton are currently 10th in the Premier League but are only one point behind Chelsea in sixth. 

Michael Keane is likely to come in for Branthwaite during the remaining five matches.