Jagielka backs Keane and Holgate to shine for Everton
Everton captain Phil Jagielka believes that Everton have the future of their defence already in the squad and backs Mason Holgate and Michael Keane to form a long term solid backline.
Jagielka is coming to the end of his Everton career, but believes in the two younger players as they look to keep their place in the Everton starting 11.
“Mason got a chance against West Ham and played really well,” Jagielka told evertonfc.com. “Sometimes as a young lad you tend to get pulled out of the team if an older pro gets fit. But I was delighted the manager stuck with him.
“He deserved it. I thought he was man of the match away at Newcastle [a 1-0 win] and he has performed exceptionally well.
“It is nice that he has got some confidence and developed a good, solid partnership with Ashley Williams as well.
“We are all pulling in the same direction. We are not pulling against each other, we want to push each other on to perform well.”
“Keano has had a couple of injuries recently, so it has not been ideal for him, but it is only his first season here,” said Jagielka
“He will settle down and I am sure he will do a fantastic job for Everton, especially under the guidance of the manager here.
“Mason will always do what is required when he is asked to play right-back, even though it is not his strongest position.
“But when the manager puts belief in you, and picks you over other players in the position where you are most comfortable, it gives you that little bit more confidence.
“Communication is a massive thing as a defender and he talks well. He is still learning and has definitely done himself a lot of good over the past couple of months.”
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