Jagielka rueing missed chance

Jul 20 2007 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post

WEDNESDAY night was a significant moment in the career of Phil Jagielka – but the new Everton signing believes it could have been even better.

Jagielka, who has arrived after a £4million move from Sheffield United, made his bow as a second-half substitute in the 1-1 friendly draw at Preston North End.

And the 24-year-old believes he should have capped his appearance with a goal after missing two headed opportunities.

“Maybe I should have scored!” said Jagielka. “The first one was a little bit weak and the second one was a bit harder but it is pre-season and I have got time to perfect my heading ability.”

“Unfortunately I missed the game at the weekend but managed to get 45 minutes on Wednesday.

“I enjoyed it. I have had to bide my time and I came on for the second 45. The boys did all right and it’s nice to get a run-out.”

Jagielka also moved to praise the travelling Everton support, which made up at least half of the 8,000-strong crown inside Deepdale.

“It started when we came out for the warm-up and it didn’t stop until the 90th minute,” he added.

“I think there were more Evertonians there than Preston supporters which is a credit to the fans.”