Jagielka wants to be part of England’s future

Defender Phil Jagielka won the last of his 39 England caps in March, but has not given up hope of being a key member of future Sam Allardyce squads.

The 34-year-old deputised as England captain when Wayne Rooney was absent last season, but missed Euro 2016.

Jagielka though, has looked typically assured in all three of Everton’s Premier League games so far and was included in the Three Lions squad for last weekend’s World Cup qualifier with Slovakia.

And though the Everton man did not get any playing time under the new boss, Jagielka has not given up hope of making a regular return to the fold.

(Michael Regan – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)

“Personally, it was a bit frustrating not to get any game time,” he said.

“But it is always nice to be called up by your country.

“He (Allardyce) has brought enthusiasm and the backroom staff has changed quite considerably.

“Sam has also introduced little changes to the training sessions as well. We have only been together for just over a week but the signs are good.

“We have another couple of meet ups before Christmas and after those I’m sure Sam’s ideas will have hit home and we will see the improvements he wants to make.”