Jake O'Brien starred away from Everton.
(Credit: Imago)
Declan Carr
Sat 7 June 2025 8:15, UK
Everton defender Jake O’Brien came off the bench as Ireland drew 1-1 with Senegal on Friday evening.
Heimir Hallgrimsson‘s side were facing the African nation ranked 19th in FIFA’s World Rankings, but they put up a great fight in Dublin.
The result leaves the Boys in Green in good stead ahead of another friendly against Luxembourg (10 July) before their World Cup Qualifiers against Hungary and Armenia in September.
The Goodison faithful has been impressed by O’Brien. (Credit: Imago)
O’Brien praised for what he did away from Everton
The Ireland defender has impressed since being moved to right-back by David Moyes after barely featuring under Sean Dyche.
The Blues star was introduced from the bench in the 67th minute and earned plaudits for his display for his country.
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Balls.ie gave him a rating of 6/10, saying: “Looked solid at right back after his introduction.”
The 23-year-old was also handed a rating of six by the Irish Daily Mirror, saying: “Was involved in a busy spell for the Irish defence.”
The Toffees ace was playing alongside Caoimhin Kelleher, after praising his move to Brentford, O’Brien said about that switch, via Liverpool News (3 June): “It doesn’t take for me to say how good he is. I think everyone knows how good he is and what he’s achieved over the last couple of years.”
David Moyes
Moyes has been crucial in O’Brien’s development. (Credit: Imago)
Everton must rely on O’Brien
O’Brien’s turnaround under Moyes was nothing short of remarkable as he ended up featuring 20 times in the Premier League after playing just twice under Dyche.
The right-back spot seemed to be his to lose with Seamus Coleman constantly suffering injuries, Ashley Young leaving at the end of his deal, and Nathan Patterson unable to force his way into the manager’s plans.
Stats O’Brien v Senegal
Clearances 2
Interceptions 1
Recoveries 1
Aerial duels won 1/2 (50%)
O’Brien stats v Senegal.
However, his future as a starter is in question, with Moyes’ side in the market for a new right-back in the summer transfer window.
The Ireland international has proved himself as a reliable option for the Scotsman and must be given the chance to continue his rise to stardom.
He could end up moving back to his natural position of centre-back, with interest in Jarrad Branthwaite from the likes of Chelsea unlikely to disappear anytime soon.
If the ex-Carlisle man departs, the Irish star can thrive alongside James Tarkowski and continue his brilliant form in the blue shirt.
Moyes’ side are set to do plenty of business as the Friedkin Group backs their manager, but O’Brien cannot be a casualty of that.
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