 Branston began his career as a trainee at Leicester City, but never made a first team appearance for the club.He did, however, go out on loan on seven occasions including spells at Rushden & Diamonds (twice), Colchester United (twice), Plymouth Argyle, Lincoln City and finally Rotherham United, who he would then join permanently in November 1999.Branston established his career at Rotherham United after being bought for £50,000 from Leicester City, and enjoyed two successive promotions with the Millers in his first two years with the club, and kept his place in the team during the Championship years.