JACK RODWELL has the mental strength to recover from his derby red-card controversy, according to his Everton FC team-mates.

Rodwell was dismissed by referee Martin Atkinson midway through the first half of Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Liverpool for a foul on Luis Suarez.

The 20-year-old was fuming at the decision and initially refused to leave the pitch before being ushered towards the touchline by opposing midfielder Charlie Adam, after which the still-angry Rodwell kicked the side of the tunnel on his way back to the dressing room.

If Everton’s appeal against the sending-off is not upheld, then Rodwell will miss the Premier League and Carling Cup clashes against Chelsea and the top-flight visit to Fulham.

Central midfielder Rodwell has prospered in recent weeks having been given an extended run in the first team following the departure of Mikel Arteta to Arsenal on transfer deadline day.

And both Everton skipper Phil Neville and goalkeeper Tim Howard are convinced the youngster will not be affected by Saturday’s red card.

“Jack was outstanding and has been (in other matches),” said Neville.

“We have persevered with him; he is getting a run of games, is showing fitness and confidence – but he is now facing three games out of the team.”

Howard added: “He started off well, getting stuck into clean tackles and he got punished for it.

“Jack is a very strong character, he is a young kid but he has a bagful of confidence on and off the field.

“He knows he has our respect and appreciation and he will be okay.”