Future is bright at Everton says Jagielka

Defeat in the Merseyside derby is always going to be tough to take but Everton skipper Phil Jagielka insists the positives were how the next generation of Toffees stars performed.

Youngsters Tom Davies, Mason Holgate and Dominic Calvert-Lewin all impressed in the 3-1 defeat at Anfield against a Liverpool side gunning for the top four.

Another Everton youngster Matthew Pennington scored for the Toffees, his first goal for the club on his first appearance of the season.

And a disappointed Jagielka is at least confident that the future is bright in the blue half of Liverpool.

He said: “There were a couple of mistakes we made that they obviously capitalised on, especially for the third goal which gave them a big advantage going into the last 30 minutes or so.

“That was a little bit disappointing but the young lads did themselves proud and it’s a great experience for them so hopefully they can build on it.

“We were well in the game but we gave ourselves too much to do, giving them the opportunity for 3-1.

“After that it was important for us to get a goal quickly but we couldn’t manage to do that.

“Joel’s not had too many saves to make other than the goals so I wouldn’t say we were getting bombarded. They’ve got some very clever and gifted footballers so it is difficult at times.

“It hurts going out there and losing a local derby. We won’t be taking too many positives at the moment but we’ve got a big game coming Tuesday now.”