Irish player tracker: David Moyes leaves Jake O’Brien in no doubt about pecking-order fall
Irish defender Jake O'Brien faces a challenging season at Everton after a difficult performance against Arsenal. Manager David Moyes has publicly signaled that O'Brien must improve to secure a regular starting position.
Why it matters
The report highlights the high-pressure environment of professional football and the career struggles of international players.
Trust the sting of a backhanded compliment to not only sharpen the mind but drain the joy from a step in the right direction.
Jake O’Brien went from being a regular starter at Everton last season to scrapping for recognition this season. And having stayed at the club amid summer transfer speculation, he only made his first Premier League start of the campaign on Saturday.
The Republic of Ireland defender got a rare opportunity to play in his preferred position of centre back for the trip to champions Arsenal . That was facilitated by Jarrad Branthwaite’s unavailability as he follows concussion protocols. Manager David Moyes opted for O’Brien ahead of Michael Keane, a player previously favoured in that position by Moyes.
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