Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 28 May 2026 7:10, UK

Jake O’Brien’s best position has often been debated at Everton, with the otherwise natural centre-back used at right-back by David Moyes.

O’Brien is not exactly built like a typical fullback, with his 6’6″ frame and strong physical attributes more associated with dominant central defenders.

The Irishman, while quite quick for his stature, is not rapid either to cause many issues down that flank for Everton.

It leaves Everton lacking quite a bit of invention in matches and puts more onus on the wingers to unlock defences.

Now, ahead of Everton’s summer window, recent transfer links seem to show a change of plan, but for O’Brien, his individual role is unclear.

Why Jake O’Brien needs clarity over Everton role

Everton have strong interest in Aaron Wan-Bissaka, suggesting Moyes may be turning to a natural right-back for next season.

However, a move like that would only make sense if the plan was then to move O’Brien inside to his natural position.

Everton, though, are also seemingly in the centre-back market with links to Switzerland defender Roggerio Nyakossi. It suggests that Moyes is looking to add more options to both areas of the pitch.

Despite his spell on the flanks for the Blues, O’Brien still has more games in central defence under his belt than he does as a right-back.

With both transfers in mind, questions will certainly be raised as to where that leaves O’Brien in the pecking order. The Toffees are looking to strengthen in both of his roles.

When O’Brien reports for pre-season, he may likely have questions of his own to ask the manager for next season.

Clarity over where he will feature for Everton must be provided, and for the player, he may be hoping it is a starting role at centre-back.

What do Jake O’Brien’s teammate think about Everton defender?

Seamus Coleman has heaped huge praise on Everton and Ireland teammate O’Brien heading into the upcoming international break.

Coleman has been competing with the 25-year-old for that fullback position, and he has seemingly had a huge impression on the Everton legend.

He stated: “Jake’s been brilliant. You know first and foremost he is a great lad. You know he is available all the time. He plays every minute of every game. He’s played right-back and had a few spells at centre-back for the club as well, and he’s been fantastic.”

While O’Brien is set for another season at Hill Dickinson, Coleman is heading for another chapter in his career.

The Everton fullback will leave on a free with his contract expiring, with Coleman citing his ambition to feature for Ireland in the 2028 Euros as a reason for leaving the Toffees.

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