David Moyes has no immediate plans to alter Jake O'Brien's status at Everton. The manager regards the Irish defender as an important part of his squad but has warned him he will need to be patient for his opportunity to shine.
Reports suggest that O'Brien had requested to leave the club just before the summer transfer window closed on September 1. However, Moyes turned down the request, and the player remains at the club in Liverpool.
Last season, the Irish international spent most of his time on the pitch as a right-back, despite preferring a central defensive role. With the new 2026/27 season underway, he had hoped for more opportunities in his favoured position, but is yet to break into the starting lineup.
O'Brien has not featured in the starting XI for any of Everton's Premier League matches this season. Moyes explained that the player continues to be an important asset for the team, although he did not promise him regular playing time.
"He’s an important member of our team, but he will have to wait for his turn and see when the opportunity arises," said the Everton manager.
Should O'Brien's situation not change by early 2027, discussions around his future may come to the fore once more. There are reports of interest from several Premier League clubs, who see O'Brien as a potential defensive reinforcement.
For now, the defender will need to battle for his place within the Everton squad and await his opportunity to prove himself in the role he prefers.
