Everton could not hold on to a point in their game against Manchester City who stole the win late on at Goodison Park.
David Moyes and his side put on a solid showing which deserved more than a defeat on home soil.
After drawing against Arsenal, and picking up a win last weekend, the Toffees were unable to secure themselves any reward this time out.
Pep Guardiola praised Moyes coming into the game and he certainly experienced the new look Everton under the 61-year-old.
The Blues are struggling to find the back of the net, which is putting a real strain on Everton’s backline to keep a clean sheet.
Only two games now remain to be played at Goodison and the Everton defence certainly played their part against the champions for most of the game.
And there was one player, in particular, who received a lot of praise for his efforts.
How Everton’s Jake O’Brien halted Kevin de Bruyne
Jake O’Brien has been hailed for his Everton turnaround following the appointment of Moyes back in January.
The Ireland international has become a mainstay in the starting XI under the 61-year-old and he showed why against the reigning champions.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Tim Sherwood was left stunned by a defensive block which O’Brien made to prevent Kevin De Bruyne.
“Wonderful defending! I would have put my life on De Bruyne scoring there!” said Sherwood live on Sky Sports.
The Belgian magician is set to leave City this summer at the end of his contract and O’Brien prevented the midfielder from scoring one final goal against the Blues.
With Jordan Pickford beaten, O’Brien’s diving header was able to steer the ball wide of the goal after De Bruyne shot from inside the box.
O’Brien commented on his relationship with Sean Dyche after the 53-year-old failed to offer the defender an opportunity.
Dyche must be watching what Everton are doing and wondering why he did not see this potential in the £17m summer signing.
Jake O’Brien has been a revelation for Everton
James Tarkowski labeled O’Brien as a ‘monster’ after his performances at right-back since January.
Ironically, Tarkowski’s injury during the game could well provide Moyes with an interesting decision to make on O’Brien.
Moyes has said O’Brien’s future is at centre-back and now the Toffees are going to require some cover for Tarkowski.
- 90 minutes played
- 2 clearances
- 1 blocked shot
- 1 clearance off the line
- 1/1 aerial duel won
O’Brien continued to impress at right-back against City, but this could be his opportunity to finally show what he can do in his natural position.
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