Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite says he is “feeling good” on his return to football.

The centre-back returned to the field on Sunday with Everton’s Under-21 side in their 4-3 victory against Sunderland Under-21s, his first match since June.

“I feel good. It’s good to get out there and get minutes under my belt,” Branthwaite said.

“The game was entertaining and end-to-end, which is what I needed to get back up to speed.

“It’s been frustrating, I would love to be out there with the lads. I’ve been taking the time to come back stronger, so that when I do come back, I can make an impact.

“You’ve got to have full belief in your own ability [to get back to the heights he showed last season]. After being out for such a long time it’s going to be difficult to get back up to speed, but I believe that when I get a chance to get back in the team, I’ll make an impact.”