Jags Is Underrated

Gareth Barry reckons Phil Jagielka is “underrated”

“For me, Phil is one of the most underrated players in the Premier League.

“He was overlooked for a long period of time and you really realise that when you play with someone as good as Phil.”

Barry also followed up Seamus Coleman in saying Jagielka is the perfect mentor for John Stones.

“They’re two players at different ends of their careers and, in terms of Stonesy playing alongside someone, Phil is ideal.

“I didn’t know too much about John before I joined Everton but when I spoke to the manager he mentioned John, and said he was a good talent who he felt was going to reach a really good level.

“Straightaway in training I picked that up with John. Nothing fazes him; his ability on the ball and his calmness was there to see.

“For me, he was naturally going to improve and improve with experience and even now, with the level he is at, with more games, with learning from people like Jags, he can reach another level.”