Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 13 April 2026 10:40, UK

Jake O’Brien may have a Rio Ngumoha test to pass against Liverpool for Everton, as the young winger could now start in the Merseyside derby.

As stated, right-back is the position David Moyes has been utilising the Irishman in, and throughout the season, he has proved himself.

However, against Brentford, his attacking qualities were evidently poor, but with Liverpool looming ahead of the first Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium, his defensive attributes will be needed more.

The Everton manager does not have many options at right-back, and it is more than likely that O’Brien will retain his place.

Additionally, ahead of this weekend’s Merseyside derby, Liverpool youngster Ngumoha could be called upon by Arne Slot, offering O’Brien a new challenge.

How Jake O’Brien can nullify Rio Ngumoha for Everton

Everton’s city rivals could have a new weapon at their disposal in Ngumoha. The winger recently scored his first goal at Anfield and is surely primed to feature more prominently.

From the Toffees’ perspective, his chances to start in the Merseyside derby will have to come into Moyes’ thinking now.

The 17-year-old’s quick feet could prove to be a threat against the Blues, but they may already have a way to counter him. That comes in the form of right-back O’Brien.

Among every Premier League defender who has made at least 20 appearances, O’Brien is placed joint-third for being dribbled past.

Throughout this season, the Irish international has only been dribbled past on four occasions.

Everton’s number 15 is among great company as well. Both Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes are tied with him, while Ruben Dias (2) and Virgil van Dijk (1) are the only defenders above him.

Additionally, among Everton’s most used defenders, O’Brien has only conceded 15 fouls, with Michael Keane (14) the only Toffees defender with fewer.

Everton could exploit Liverpool’s left side

If Ngumoha does start against Everton, then any combination of the Englishman with Andy Robertson or Milos Kerkez would likely offer plenty of space down that side of the pitch.

The attacking fullback and winger combination can leave Slot’s side wide open.

Although it has been Dwight McNeil to start on the right wing over the last few matches, Tyrique George impressed with his cameo against Brentford.

The winger looked lively and threatening and would have more pace to exploit any potential gaps in Liverpool’s structure.

While Liverpool may have found a timely wide option for the derby, it appears Moyes could also have the same.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.