- Jake O’Brien has played 34 games this season.
- The Irish defender has played a majority of the season at right-back.
- O’Brien says that his first goal was long overdue.
Jake O’Brien has flown under the radar for much of this season. Signed frm Lyon in 2024, the Republic of Ireland international made 20 appearances last term. This season, he has stepped up significantly, featuring 34 times, playing 2,891 minutes.
While naturally a centre‑back, he has been deployed primarily at right‑back due to Everton’s lack of options in that position. Despite being out of his natural role, he has beenfrom solid week in, week out.
His performances have been quietly impressive. In Monday’s 3‑3 draw with Manchester City, Jake O’Brien scored his first goal for Everton, a bullet header that put the Toffees 3‑1 ahead. He also contributed six defensive actions, won five of eight aerial duels, and made two tackles and one interception.
Jake O’Brien: ‘I needed it – it was long overdue’
After the City game, Jake O’Brien spoke about finally getting off the mark. “I needed it. I mean, it was long overdue. I’ve had a few ruled out. I need to, with my size, add goals. I haven’t had one in too long and I’m happy to get the first one out of the way.”
The 27‑year‑old has now made 54 Premier League appearances for Everton, scoring three goals and providing one assist. This season alone, he has helped keep nine clean sheets, a significant contribution to a defence that has been one of the better units outside the top six.
A reliable presence in the Everton defence
Jake O’Brien debuted in the Premier League for Everton on September 14, 2024, as a substitute against Aston Villa. Since then, he has become a mainstay. His ability to adapt to right‑back, despite his natural position being centre‑half, has been crucial for David Moyes this season, who has lacked a specialist in that role. Nathan Patterson has struggled with fitness, and Seamus Coleman is in the twilight of his career. In their absence, O’Brien has taken the lead.
Everton are still just four points behind Bournemouth in sixth with three games to play. European qualification remains possible, and O’Brien’s consistency has been a big part of that push. While others have grabbed headlines, the Irish defender has quietly gone about his business and his first goal was a deserved reward for a fine campaign.
