Sean Dyche reveals why Michael Keane started ahead of Jake O'Brien after Everton defeat against Brighton

Sean Dyche has explained his decision to start Michael Keane ahead of Jake O’Brien as Everton suffered an opening-day loss to Brighton.

The Toffees’ 2024-25 campaign started with a 3-0 defeat against the Seagulls at Goodison Park. Everton did begin the encounter on the front foot and had a penalty overturned by a VAR review - but ultimately they were second-best during the contest. Kaoru Mitoma, Danny Welbeck and Simon Adingra were on target for the away side, while Dyche’s men had Ashley Young given a red card.

Everton were without key defender Jarrad Branthwaite for the encounter because of injury. The 22-year-old helped Everton keep the fourth-best defensive record in the Premier League last season and has been targeted by Manchester United in the summer transfer window.

The Blues signed Jake O’Brien from Lyon for £17 million earlier this month but Dyche instead opted to hand a start to Michael Keane - returning from a minor knee issue - alongside James Tarkowski in the rearguard.

On the selection call, Goodison boss Dyche said: “The reason why he [O’Brien] didn’t start is because Michael Keane has had a very strong pre-season. He was very unfortunate to get injured at Preston and is a very experienced Premier League player.

“Jake hasn’t got that experience but we think he’s a very good player and will learn very quickly. He’s been very open-minded about the nuts and bolts, if you like, how quick the game is - he found that in previous performances. He’s a very good player and will develop.”