Jake O’Brien at heart of viral moment in Everton vs Bournemouth that’s sparked outrage
Jake O’Brien has gained unwanted attention after drawing a controversial foul in the second half of Everton’s win against Bournemouth.
Everton beat Bournemouth 1-0 on Tuesday, bouncing back to winning ways in the Premier League after defeat last time out.
David Moyes knew how tough a challenge the Vitality Stadium would be, but once again, the Toffees proved what they’re made of on the road.
Everton are still hopeful of achieving European football this season, and the three points will have done the Blues the world of good.
Interestingly, O’Brien, of all people, has come under the microscope for winning a free-kick in what many Everton fans will think is a foul on the Irishman.
Jake O’Brien drawing a foul against Alex Jimenez has gone viral
The Toffees were able to keep their fifth clean sheet of the Premier League season against the Cherries, with O’Brien playing a big part in the win.
The versatile defender has predominantly played at right-back for Everton this campaign, but Moyes decided to play O’Brien in his natural position of centre-back.
The Irishman’s performance showed why the Everton boss got his selection spot on.
O’Brien vs Bournemouth:
- O’Brien won 100% of his aerial duels
- He had an 86% pass accuracy
- O’Brien made eight defensive contributions
However, a video of Bournemouth’s Alex Jimenez fouling O’Brien has now spanned over 1,200,000 views, after an X user published the footage, stating their frustration with the referee’s decision.
A ‘like’ count of 38,000 and rising suggests that many are in agreement with the disagreement on O’Brien, and it seems like there’s a consensus that he deliberately dived to get Everton out of a dangerous situation.
Either way, the 24-year-old’s performances of late are proving that Everton should focus on other areas in the January transfer market.
- Read more: Thierno Barry shares frustrated message on Instagram despite win vs Bournemouth – ‘Story of my life’
Everton don’t need a new right-back
Moyes will no doubt be hoping to improve his squad in the upcoming January window, and rumours have already started to circulate on potential signings.
Everton have been linked with Anthony Caci, a right-back who plays in the Bundesliga, who, if he were signed, would obviously provide competition for O’Brien and others.
However, the defender showed his capabilities against Bournemouth, and James Garner is also proving to be a revelation at right-back.
This is an area that should be at the bottom of Moyes’ list of priorities heading into a crucial transfer window, that could make or break Everton’s season.
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