Everton shot-stopper Jordan Pickford has been in action with England and is expected to once again start in goal against Latvia tonight.
Armando Broja has been impressive for Albania whilst Vitaliy Mykolenko played well against Portugal on Friday.
Jake O’Brien was a threat for Ireland in their first-leg clash against Bulgaria and he played the full 90 minutes in the second leg on Sunday evening.
With that said, here is how Ireland’s national media reacted to his performance as his side picked up a 2-1 victory at the Aviva Stadium.
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Ireland defeated Bulgaria 2-1 in Dublin, with Evan Ferguson and Adam Idah on the scoresheet.
The Republic won 4-2 on aggregate and Everton defender Jake O’Brien plied his trade at centre-back alongside Nathan Collins.
Ireland’s media were really impressed with O’Brien’s display and noted that he was a threat from set-pieces.
“His height was evident early on as his six-foot-six frame caused trouble at the first corner, forcing a save from Bulgaria’s goalkeeper and causing panic again on 42 minutes when his goal-bound effort from another set-piece was blocked on the line,” RTE wrote.
“Playing out the back, the Cork man brought a degree of composure as the left centre-back with the exception of Bulgaria’s goal.”
RTE awarded O’Brien a 7/10 match rating, though, Balls.IE weren’t as convinced, as they scored him 5/10.
“Nearly scored his first international goal with a brilliant downward header after just three minutes – and another just three minutes before the break. He and Collins tripped over each other for the Bulgaria opener.”
O’Brien’s Sofascore statistics against Bulgaria make for really good reading, especially considering he won 100% of his aerial duels.
- 90 minutes played
- 70 touches
- 5/5 aerial duels won
- 95% pass accuracy
- 1 key pass
- 3 clearances
The 23-year-old’s comfortability in possession is clear to see, as he completed a staggering 95 per cent of his passes.
Plus, O’Brien could’ve had an assist to his name had his key pass been converted, so it was certainly an encouraging performance by all accounts.
The Everton man will now travel back to Merseyside ahead of next week’s clash against fierce rivals Liverpool.
