Jake O’Brien Features in Ireland Draw Against Senegal
Everton defender Jake O’Brien made an impact off the bench as the Republic of Ireland earned a 1-1 draw against Senegal on Friday evening.
Heimir Hallgrimsson’s men faced a tough challenge against the African side, currently ranked 19th in the FIFA World Rankings, but held their own in a spirited display in Dublin.
The draw puts Ireland in a positive position heading into their next friendly against Luxembourg on July 10, ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Hungary and Armenia in September.
O’Brien Impresses Away from Club Duty
O’Brien, who has enjoyed a resurgence since being shifted to right-back under David Moyes, came on in the 67th minute and impressed with his performance.
Rated 6/10 by Balls.ie, the outlet remarked that he “looked solid at right-back after his introduction.” The Irish Daily Mirror echoed the sentiment, also awarding a 6/10 and noting he was active during a “busy spell for the Irish defence.”
The 23-year-old featured alongside goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, whose recent move to Brentford O’Brien praised. Speaking to Liverpool News (3 June), he said: “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.”
Everton Should Stand by O’Brien
O’Brien’s transformation under Moyes has been impressive. After barely featuring under Sean Dyche, he made 20 Premier League appearances last season. With Seamus Coleman dealing with persistent injuries, Ashley Young departing, and Nathan Patterson out of favour, O’Brien has made the right-back position his own.
O’Brien’s Stats vs. Senegal:
Clearances: 2
Interceptions: 1
Recoveries: 1
Aerial duels won: 1/2 (50%)
Despite his strong form, O’Brien’s long-term role at Everton remains uncertain, with the club reportedly seeking a new right-back in the summer transfer window. However, the Irish international has proven to be a dependable performer and deserves the opportunity to continue his development.
With Jarrad Branthwaite attracting interest from clubs like Chelsea, a potential departure could see O’Brien revert to his natural centre-back role, partnering James Tarkowski.
As the Friedkin Group backs Moyes in the upcoming transfer window, it’s crucial that O’Brien is retained. He’s earned his place and continues to prove he can be a key figure in Everton’s plans moving forward.
Int’l media react to what Everton star did on Friday – ‘Busy’, ‘Solid’
