adminEverton remain firmly in the hunt for European qualification as the Premier League campaign enters its decisive phase.
The Toffees are currently eighth in the table, having collected 37 points from 26 matches, and sit just five points behind sixth-placed Liverpool.
Tuesday night’s 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth has tightened the mid-table battle, but Everton are still well placed to push for a European spot. A slight adjustment to David Moyes’ regular starting XI could significantly boost their chance.
Jake O’Brien has been one of Everton’s most dependable performers this season, stepping up when called upon. Although naturally a centre-back, the Republic of Ireland international has spent much of the campaign at right-back due to limited options in that position.
However, recent data suggests Moyes may need to restore the 24-year-old to the heart of defence to maximise Everton’s European ambitions.
According to statistics shared by Ell Bretland on X, Everton’s defensive record improves dramatically when O’Brien plays centrally. With him at centre-back, the Toffees concede just one goal every 183 minutes. In contrast, when deployed at right-back, they concede once every 62 minutes.
O’Brien will miss Everton’s upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester United due to suspension following a violent conduct charge. He is set to return for the trip to Newcastle on 28 February.
In the meantime, Moyes must find an alternative solution at right-back. Nathan Patterson, who has started only three league games this season, could be handed an opportunity to stake his claim in the coming weeks.
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