Everton’s £17 million signing from Lyon, Jake O’Brien, has been thriving in an unexpected role under David Moyes. The 6’6″ Republic of Ireland international was initially brought in to partner Jarrad Branthwaite in central defense, but Moyes has deployed him as a right-back with remarkable success.
O’Brien has admitted to finding some aspects of his new role “weird,” particularly the instruction to overlap with the winger. He recalls his first time doing an overlap and thinking, “what am I doing?” Despite the initial awkwardness, O’Brien has grown to enjoy the challenge and freedom of playing in a more advanced position, showcasing his pace and aerial ability.
According to O’Brien, Moyes’ unorthodox approach has allowed him to adapt and thrive in the role. However, it’s understood that O’Brien’s long-term future lies in central defense, with Everton reportedly eyeing Brighton’s Tariq Lamptey as a potential signing to fill the right full-back position. This would enable O’Brien to return to his favored role.
O’Brien’s rise to prominence at Everton has been notable, with Kevin De Bruyne even praising his performances. His ability to adapt to different positions and roles has been a significant factor in his success. With Moyes confirming that O’Brien’s medium to long-term future is in central defense, it’s clear that the young defender has a crucial role to play in Everton’s future plans.
O’Brien’s Background and Career
Before joining Everton, O’Brien played for Lyon, where he made 27 appearances and scored four goals in the French top flight. He has also represented the Republic of Ireland, earning two caps in friendlies. O’Brien’s journey to becoming a top-class defender has been unconventional, with experiences in Gaelic football, hurling, and even boxing shaping his physical attributes and mental toughness.
Everton’s Perspective
Everton manager Sean Dyche believes O’Brien will be a top-quality player for the club, citing his valuable experience abroad and at the international level. Dyche has a reputation for developing young center-halves, and O’Brien’s progression will likely be closely monitored. With James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite forming the first-choice central defensive duo, O’Brien’s immediate future may involve waiting for opportunities or playing out wide ¹ ².
