Everton are ready to listen to offers for Jake O'Brien, according to The Athletic, with the Republic of Ireland defender attracting interest from clubs in England and across Europe as the transfer deadline looms.
The 25-year-old started 35 Premier League matches last season, playing 3,124 minutes. There was a catch, though. Almost all of that work came at right-back rather than his preferred centre-back role. That could now have a bearing on his future.
David Moyes has used O'Brien as a makeshift right-back for much of the campaign, but it has never looked like a natural fit. Everton's right-sided build-up was among the least adventurous in the division, with only 22.9% of their passes going down that flank.
O'Brien isn't suddenly a poor defender. Far from it. But asking a centre-back to provide the attacking thrust expected from a modern full-back was always going to have its limitations. There were few overlaps. Crosses were hardly flying into the box. Everton's right side often felt predictable.
O'Brien, meanwhile, wants to play in the middle again. At 25, he needs regular football in his best position, not another season spent filling a hole. And that is where the numbers inside Everton's squad become awkward.
#going #everton
The 25-year-old started 35 Premier League matches last season, playing 3,124 minutes. There was a catch, though. Almost all of that work came at right-back rather than his preferred centre-back role. That could now have a bearing on his future.
David Moyes has used O'Brien as a makeshift right-back for much of the campaign, but it has never looked like a natural fit. Everton's right-sided build-up was among the least adventurous in the division, with only 22.9% of their passes going down that flank.
O'Brien isn't suddenly a poor defender. Far from it. But asking a centre-back to provide the attacking thrust expected from a modern full-back was always going to have its limitations. There were few overlaps. Crosses were hardly flying into the box. Everton's right side often felt predictable.
O'Brien, meanwhile, wants to play in the middle again. At 25, he needs regular football in his best position, not another season spent filling a hole. And that is where the numbers inside Everton's squad become awkward.
#going #everton
3 months ago
