‘Jake O’Brien to look over shoulders at Everton’ after Alan Myers transfer claim
Jake O’Brien could potentially have to fight for his place under David Moyes at Everton after this transfer window.
The Scottish manager preferred the Republic of Ireland international in his starting lineup after replacing Sean Dyche, and the Toffees enjoyed relative success.
Moyes did an excellent job at Goodison Park, and the Grand Old Lady got the farewell it deserved after fears of relegation during the start of last season.
Watford want Ashley Young to return as a free agent after his contract at the Merseyside outfit expired, and his replacement could potentially pose a risk to O’Brien.
Everton definitely need new right-back this transfer window at Bramley-Moore Dock
Alan Myers believes the Toffees “definitely” need a new right back in the ongoing transfer window.
The former Sky Sports journalist wants to see the Merseyside outfit bolster the right side of their defence, with Young and O’Brien sharing the duties last season.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Minutes played |
| Premier League | 20 | 2 | 1569 |
Nathan Patterson’s future at Bramley-Moore Dock is uncertain, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him leave in the coming weeks, leaving Moyes outfit with possible issues.
When one Blues supporter suggested a new right-back should be a priority, Myers responded on X (20 July): “We definitely need a right-back in my opinion.”
Moyes should demand more transfers from The Friedkin Group
Panathinaikos star Georgios Vagiannidis is on the Toffees’ radar to bolster the right side of defence, but it remains to be seen whether they can sign him.
The Friedkin Group (TFG) have made some astute decisions after taking over from Farhad Moshiri to get the Blues out of their financial troubles, but the recruitment in the ongoing transfer window has frustrated some fans.
Carlos Alcaraz’s loan move from Flamengo was made permanent at the end of last season, while Thierno Barry and Mark Travers have been signed so far this summer.
Everton arguably need several more additions to their squad after losing quality and depth due to players leaving after their contracts expired.
While O’Brien has done well as a right-back in recent months, his natural position is in the centre, and the Toffees should undoubtedly look to bolster that department.
The Irish defender may be looking over his shoulders if someone like Vagiannidis is signed, as he may then have to compete with James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite for a place in the starting lineup.