Phil Jagielka caps debut Everton season with England call up

May 12 2008 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post

Everton FC's Phil Jagielka _180

PHIL JAGIELKA had double reason to celebrate yesterday after earning his first international call-up.

The centre-back had already helped guide Everton to fifth place and a UEFA Cup berth when he was announced in the 31-man England squad for the forthcoming friendlies against the United States and Trinidad and Tobago.

National team coach Fabio Capello has been impressed by Jagielka’s form since arriving at Goodison Park from Sheffield United for £4million last summer.

After an indifferent start to his Everton career, the 25-year-old has become a regular at the heart of David Moyes’s defence, making 48 appearances and scoring twice this season.

The call-up represents a remarkable turnaround for Jagielka, who 12 months ago was suffering the agony of relegation from the Premier League with Sheffield United.

Jagielka effectively replaces Joleon Lescott in the squad, with his Everton team-mate ruled out due to treatment on his knee.

Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Tom Huddlestone have also earned their first call-ups.

Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock, who has been in outstanding form for Blackburn this term, is included.