Moyes Defends Branthwaite’s Left‑Back Role, Fans React

In a pre‑match press conference, David Moyes explained that Branthwaite is comfortable playing at left‑back as well as centre‑back, and that young players often start on the flanks before moving to their natural positions. He also noted that Harrison Armstrong has been used on the wings since returning from loan.

Branthwaite, 23, has made 80 Premier League appearances, 72 of them as a starter, mostly at centre‑back. Fans were upset that the manager seemed to sideline him to accommodate other defenders, leading to a wave of criticism on social media.