Jake O’Brien under pressure at Everton as transfer priority emerges
Jake O’Brien may be sweating on his future at Everton in the near future.
Everton failed to bring in a right-back in the summer, but they were clearly in the market for one.
Everton tried to sign Kenny Tete, before he agreed a new deal with Fulham, and they could not find a suitable alternative target before the deadline.
O’Brien has been utilised as a makeshift right-back as he was last season for David Moyes, and he has done well for the most part.
Jake O’Brien’s position may be upgradeable for Everton
O’Brien was ripped apart in Everton’s 1-1 draw with West Ham, as Crysencio Summerville caused his constant problems.
Iconic football commentator Ian Darke believes that O’Brien’s position may be an area that the Blues try to upgrade for Moyes in January, especially after his showing against the Hammers.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, he said: “O’Brien has done a pretty good job since he came into the reckoning under Moyes and has been the starting right-back.
“He had problems with Summerville against West Ham, no questions about it, but he is a bit of a speed merchant and he was on form.
“I would say it is a position that is towards the top of the priority list, if they are to go back into the market in January.
“So, the pressure is on O’Brien to cement his place, but yeah, he had a tricky night against the Hammers.
“But you would have to say, everyone is allowed a bad game, he had done a pretty good job since he came into the side.”
Everton need a natural right-back
The Blues need a right-back that is comfortable with all aspects of the role, including going forward, and the Ireland international lacks the natural attacking disposition of the modern right-back.
Considering that the backup options are Seamus Coleman and Nathan Patterson, two players that cannot be relied upon, due to injuries, the position is a necessity for the Blues when the market reopens.
Unfortunately, that may come at the expense of O’Brien, despite his solid performances since being forced into the role.
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