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Jake O'Brien proves why David Moyes can't sell him after ‘excellent' Ireland scenes vs Israel
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- Jake O'Brien proves why David Moyes can't sell him after ‘excellent' Ireland scenes vs Israel
Jake O'Brien's display inthe Republic of Ireland's 1-1 draw with Israel leaves more questions over his Everton future.
The 25-year-old was reportedly allowed to leave the Blues in the summer, deemed surplus to requirements.
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The 21-cap international wanted more game time than David Moyes can give him.
No offers came in for the defender, despite interest in his services, and he is expected to be back on the market in January.
He has only played two times so far this season for the Merseysiders, with a total of 16 minutes in the Premier League.
However, Moyes should resist the urge to get rid after his latest international display on Sunday.
Why Everton can't afford to lose Jake O'Brien
O'Brien was brilliant despite his side being unable to pick up three points in the UEFA Nations League contest.
The Irish Independent were in awe at his showing, saying: "At the heart of the Irish defence, the Everton man also came into the starting team and was excellent.
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"He was imperious in the air and on the ground in the face of some overly aggressive Israeli challenges."
He may have forced Moyes into a rethink over the idea of selling him, as he proved that he can step up when needed.
The media loved his showing at the TSC Arena in Serbia, but what do the stats say about it?
How Irish media reacted to 'imperious' Jake O'Brien as Everton man impresses vs Israel What do the stats tell us about O'Brien's showing?
Blues star O'Brien took 83 touches, which was the most in the contest, showing that he can take control.
According to FotMob data, he completed 93 per cent of his pass attempts, with eight passes into the final third.
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He completed six of his eight long pass attempts, for a success rate of 75 per cent.
Defensively, he made six contributions, with one tackle and five clearances, as well as four recoveries.
In terms of duels, he won one of two on the ground and two of three in the air, for 50 and 67 per cent success rates in those areas.
O'Brien showed that he should still be in Moyes' plans, and that the Hill Dickinson Stadium side would regret selling him.
He must be convinced that his time will come and that there is plenty of opportunities throughout the season, as when he is at his best, he is too good to lose.
His latest showing away from L3 proves that, and Moyes should take notice of how he performed.
