Raised as an elegant centre-half, the Everton player was always more likely to prevent goals than score them.

However, a more advanced midfield role last season hinted at his attacking potential and none more so than his goalscoring cameo in the 3-1 win over Manchester United in February.

“I’d like to continue in midfield,” admits Rodwell.

“I’ve played defence a lot but I wouldn’t see my future as a centre half. I like to do more than just stay at the back, I like to get forward and midfield suited me last season. I wouldn’t like to say what will happen in the future, maybe one day I will step back, but for the foreseeable future it’s definitely centre midfield.

“I don’t think goals like the one I scored against United would happen if I was centre half.”

With the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City all ready to offer Rodwell European football next season, the youngster’s dedication to the Everton cause has sent out a clear message as to which direction he sees the club is heading.

Just two defeats in 24 league games was title challenging form in the second half of last season. It was the same kind of form that saw Everton reach the FA Cup final 12 months ago.

A poor start to the 2009/10 campaign meant Everton narrowly missed out on a Europa League place.

Rodwell insists it is only a matter of time until Everton return to Europe and are competing for silverware again.

“We were so close the season before last, getting to Wembley,” said Rodwell. “You get the feeling that the fans will have something else to cheer about soon. Maybe that’s a cup or hopefully in a few years a cup in Europe, be it Europa League or maybe even Champions League. You never know. The squad’s moving forward, that’s the main thing. I think there will be something to look forward to sooner rather than later.”