Jagielka: Being Everton captain has improved me as a player
Phil Jagielka says that being made Everton captain has helped to improve his on pitch performances and says that he has become more vocal with the added responsibility.
Jagielka was speaking before Englands friendly with Brazil on Friday and although he isn’t 100% fit yet following his comeback from injury, he feels that this game is all about match fitness.
“It was an important week last week,” said Jagielka, “getting out to Portugal to get a few more sessions under my belt, and we had a really good session today.
“I do not need to be 100 per cent fit this week. It is more about building up and getting match practice before we go out to Miami, hopefully timing it perfectly for the opening group game.”
“I am not guaranteed to play but I am in a better position than I was two years ago,” he added, referring back to Euro 2012 when he was an unused squad player.
“I have played a decent role in the qualifying campaign to get us to Brazil and it would be nice to get some game time and be part of a successful team.”
“It is all about momentum,” said Jagielka. “If we can get some decent results in the friendlies we have got before the tournament, confidence will be high.”
He added: “People may be playing down our chances but momentum is a fantastic thing in football. The lads are really positive.”
Jags believes that having the added responsibility on the pitch this season has improved his game.
“Being made Everton captain this year forced that on me a little bit more,” he added.
“I am quite loud and vocal on the pitch. It is important we have leaders in all different types of areas.”
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