League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Trades

Everton's Jake O'Brien continues at right-back ahead of new season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 8:09 AM

Last updated Aug 6, 2026

Everton's Jake O'Brien continues at right-back ahead of new season

Summary

As Everton approaches the new season, Jake O'Brien remains positioned as a right-back, a role he has taken since David Moyes returned to the club. Originally signed as a central defender from Olympique Lyon in 2024, O'Brien's continued use in this position has drawn frustration from fans, with concerns it hampers his development. Everton is reportedly interested in signing right-back Alistair Johnston from Celtic, suggesting potential changes in the lineup. Fans express a desire for O'Brien to return to his preferred central defense role alongside Jarrad Branthwaite to aid his progression.

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Market Watch

•Jake O'Brien plays as a right-back for Everton during pre-season.
•He was signed as a central defender from Olympique Lyon in 2024.
•Fans express frustration over his continued position at right-back.
•Everton shows interest in Celtic's Alistair Johnston as a right-back option.
•Concerns exist about O'Brien's development in his current role.

Latest Updates

8:09 AMYahoo Sports — Is a right-back deal key to O'Brien's development?

What they're saying

"
Everton fan Les Roberts from The Blue Room says it is "frustrating" that Jake O'Brien is continuing to play as right-back when the new season is on the horizon. O'Brien was signed as a central defender from Olympique Lyon in 2024, but was switched to cover the full-back role when David Moyes returned for his second stint at the club. Everton are reportedly interested in Celtic's Alistair Johnston, but in the meantime, O'Brien is continuing to hold that position.
— Yahoo Sports

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