Everton's Phil Jagielka: Possible England call-up is a 'win-win' situation

Everton defender Phil Jagielka has been tipped for a late World Cup call with England, but believes whether it comes or not he is in a "win-win" situation.

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The 27-year-old has missed much of the season with the anterior cruciate ligament rupture he sustained at the end of the last campaign, but has performed well since returning to action in February.

With other potential Three Lions candidates struggling for form and fitness, Jagielka finds himself with an outside chance of getting the nod from manager Fabio Capello — but insists he will be satisfied even if he isn't on the plane to South Africa.

"I'm not sure what's going to go on this close season, although I think I'm in a win-win situation - with one a bit more win than the other," Jagielka told reporters.

"If I'm on a plane to South Africa it will be amazing, if not then it will be a nice little break for me.

"I've spoken to the (Everton) physio and we've had a laugh and a joke about it, and it's hard to make a decision.

"But as far as I'm concerned I'm available to go this summer. I'm sure the physio, with his Everton head on, will not want me to go.

"But for England and for me, he'll be delighted if I get the chance to board the plane.

"If I did get called up I couldn't turn it down because I don't know if the chance would ever come up again.

"I've always played with my heart rather than my head, and I'll continue to do so if the physio lets me."

Despite his comfortable recent performances, the former Sheffield United defender admits the injury is still causing him some bother, as is the strain of playing regular games again

"My knees are still a little sore," he acknowledged, after Sunday's 2-1 victory against Fulham.

"I jarred them both in the game, which isn't ideal, but it's something I'm going to have to get used to.

"I used to be made of rubber, but now there are a few more bolts in there!"

But such issues won't prevent him from being available if Capello comes calling.

"You think about getting a couple of caps, but if the possibility arises of playing in a tournament like the World Cup, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for someone like me," he said.

"I'd be delighted to go as a squad member. The two first-choice centre-halves are pretty much nailed on, but the next two are up in the air, and from my point of view I'm delighted that's the case."

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