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Three Everton truths to emerge from international break, Jake O'Brien stubbornness included
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- Three Everton truths to emerge from international break, Jake O'Brien stubbornness included
The international break is slowly coming to an end, with Everton having eyes on facing Hull City upon domestic football's return.
David Moyes will have no doubt be keeping an eye on things, especially with many Toffees players away with their nations.
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International breaks can both be a perfect time for a reset, while also proving to be costly by halting momentum.
With Everton unbeaten in their first five games, the Scotsman may have fears it is the latter that will rear its head.
And he will want to continue where he left things off.
But here are three lessons, or should we say truths, that have been emerging this international break for Everton.
Why Jake O'Brien continues to be wasted at Everton
Jake O'Brien has proven time and time again he can be an exceptional defender for Everton.
But he must begin playing at centre-back - his natural role.
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O'Brien started two of the Republic of Ireland's three games in the Nations League so far, and both of those in central defence.
The Irishman produced two quality displays for his nation, with his performance against Kosovo providing a 100 per cent passing accuracy, including three long balls.
Against Israel, he continued to impress, winning 100 per cent of the seven duels he competed in.
Overall, O'Brien could have an important role to play for Everton, if only Moyes can become less stubborn and play him where he works best.
How Irish media reacted to 'imperious' Jake O'Brien as Everton man impresses vs Israel Summer failings starting to rear their head
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Everyone knew Everton entered this season with a thin squad, and those issues are beginning to show already.
Vitalii Mykolenko is a doubt for Everton due to injury , with the Ukrainian full-back returning to Merseyside to recover.
Mykolenko is the Toffees' only natural left-back with Adam Aznou sent out on loan to Malaga for this season.
And the failure to proof the squad for depth may already begin to haunt Everton's ambitions.
Beginning of the end of Jordan Pickford?
Jordan Pickford has been in unknown territory throughout this international break for England so far - and that is watching the Three Lions from the bench.
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With four games throughout the end of September and the start of October, Thomas Tuchel opted to hand James Trafford the first two matches.
It may be the start of Pickford's fall from the England number one role, but Everton fans know how good their goalkeeper is.
While Tuchel may be testing his options, there should be no worries for Pickford about his future in L3 at the moment.
