Jake O'Brien was back in the familiar territory of centre back while on international duty at the weekend
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Jake O'Brien heads to score during the match between Brentford and Everton at the Gtech Community Stadium on February 26, 2025
Jake O'Brien heads to score during the match between Brentford and Everton at the Gtech Community Stadium on February 26, 2025
(Image: Tony McArdle/Everton FC Official Photography Library/SmartFrame)
Jake O’Brien said his focus was firmly on a big finish to Everton’s season after hitting a personal landmark on Sunday. The defender made his first competitive start for the Republic of Ireland in the 2-1 Nations League win over Bulgaria.
He nearly scored - twice coming close from set pieces in a performance that may offer a true glimpse of his Everton future.
The towering 23-year-old has burst into form as a makeshift right back since the return of David Moyes in January. The summer signing from Lyon is growing increasingly confident out wide and has scored twice in the club’s nine game unbeaten Premier League streak.
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Moyes has been pleased with his development but has stressed he sees O’Brien’s long-term future at centre back. Whether he breaks into the starting XI in his favoured position next season remains to be seen.
Much of his hope may lie in the future of Jarrad Branthwaite, who is again expected to be the subject of serious interest in the coming months. On Sunday, O’Brien slotted alongside Nathan Collins in the left centre back role Branthwaite typically occupies - offering a taste of how he might fare should he be required to step into the England international’s position.
Irish media provided mixed reviews, with RTE giving him 7/10 and praising his composure on the ball - though the outlet Balls were a little more sceptical with a 5/10 review of his display.
One element of his game Moyes is keen to unlock is his potential to dominate attacking set pieces. The Blues boss has bemoaned the poor service from set pieces in recent months and O’Brien showcased what he could do if that improved - almost scoring twice from corners.
After the match, he took to social media to state where his focus lies as Everton look to finish the season in good form. He wrote: “Job done over the two legs, and proud to have made my first competitive start, especially at the Aviva Stadium. Always an honor to represent my country. Been a top week with the lads, now full focus on the run-in.”