Premier League

Phil Jagielka Can Emulate John Terry - Steve Round

Everton's assistant manager Steve Round has tipped Phil Jagielka to equal Chelsea's John Terry...

Dec 20, 2008 3:25:37 PM

Phil Jagielka does not look happy as Everton succumb to another loss.

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Phil Jagielka does not look happy as Everton succumb to another loss.

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Following an impressive first season with Everton last year, Phil Jagielka has been just as solid for the Toffees this season playing every minute of their Premier League ties this campaign.

After moving to the Merseyside club for a fee of £4 million from Sheffield United in the summer of 2007, the former Sheffield United player earned his first full international cap for England in June 2008.

Everton's assistant manager Steve Round has backed the Manchester-born centre-back, who can also play in midfield, to establish himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League.

"He [Jagielka] is close [to Terry], a lot closer than he thinks," Round is quoted as saying in the Daily Mail.

"When you look at someone of the stature and quality of John Terry you maybe think 'What a player he is. Could I ever be that good?'

"But he is not far away. He has been capped, he understands the England environment, and now all he has to do is concentrate on taking the next step and improving, which he can do.

"He can go as high as he wants to go. It's his choice to take that step forward and become a top player."

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com