Career Timeline of Joey O'Brien: Major Achievements and Milestones

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 21, 2025

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Joey O'Brien made an impact.

Joey O'Brien is a retired Irish professional footballer who played as a full-back and defensive midfielder. He had spells at Bolton Wanderers, Sheffield Wednesday, West Ham United, and Shamrock Rovers. He earned five caps for the Republic of Ireland national team between 2006 and 2012. In 2016, O'Brien was a victim of fraud and testified in court. In 2021, he became the assistant manager of Shelbourne.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2003: Called by Republic of Ireland U17

In 2003, O'Brien was called up by Republic of Ireland U17 and was involved in the tournament. He was awarded Player of the Tournament.

2004: Career with Bolton Wanderers

In 2004, O'Brien started his career with Bolton Wanderers.

2004: Loan to Sheffield Wednesday

In 2004, O'Brien was loaned out to League One team Sheffield Wednesday.

May 2005: Premier League debut

On May 15, 2005, O'Brien made his Premier League debut against Everton as a late substitute.

September 2005: First Start for Bolton

In September 2005, O'Brien made his first start for Bolton in a UEFA Cup tie against PFC Lokomotiv Plovdiv.

February 2006: Called up to Republic of Ireland Squad

In February 2006, O'Brien was called up to the Republic of Ireland squad for the first time.

March 2006: Debut for Republic of Ireland

On March 1, 2006, O'Brien made his debut for the Republic of Ireland against Sweden.

2006: Called up to first team

During the 2005-06 season, O'Brien was called up to the first team following a defensive crisis of injuries.

2006: O'Brien capped by Republic of Ireland

In 2006, O'Brien was capped five times by the Republic of Ireland at senior level.

September 2007: Return from Injury

On September 23, 2007, O'Brien made his return for Bolton after recovering from a knee injury, starting in a 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur.

July 2008: Given number 8 shirt

In July 2008, O'Brien was given the number 8 shirt previously worn by Iván Campo.

March 2011: Loan to Sheffield Wednesday

On March 24, 2011, O'Brien joined Sheffield Wednesday on loan for a second time until the end of the season.

July 2011: Signed by West Ham United

In July 2011, O'Brien was signed by West Ham United on a free transfer after a successful trial period. He signed a two-year contract.

August 2011: Competitive Debut and First Goal for West Ham

In August 2011, O'Brien made his competitive debut for West Ham and scored his first goal for the club in a 4-0 win against Watford. Specifically, his debut was on August 7, 2011 in a 1-0 defeat to Cardiff City and his goal was scored on August 16, 2011.

2011: Contract Extension with Bolton

In 2011, despite being injured, O'Brien signed a one-year extension to his contract, keeping him at Bolton Wanderers until the summer.

August 2012: Called up to Republic of Ireland Squad

On August 3, 2012, O'Brien was called up to the Republic of Ireland squad for a friendly against Serbia, as a replacement for Sean St Ledger. It was his first call up in over four years.

November 2012: First Premier League Goal

On November 19, 2012, O'Brien scored his first ever Premier League goal, earning his team a point against Stoke.

2012: Final Cap for Republic of Ireland

In 2012, O'Brien's last of five caps for the Republic of Ireland at senior level was earned.

January 2013: New Contract with West Ham

In January 2013, O'Brien signed a new contract with West Ham United, keeping him until 2013. He also made his first appearance since returning from injury.