Everton are set to receive a boost, as captain Phil Jagielka targets Sunday’s game against Brighton Hove Albion, to return from his hamstring injury.
Sunday sees the beginning of the most crucial period of Ronald Koeman’s time as Everton manager. The remainder of October will play an important role in determining his future at the club.
Koeman recently received a vote of confidence from majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri. However, if Everton finish the month still struggling in the league, remain at the bottom of their Europa League group and get knocked out of the League Cup, he could be on his way out.
With this in mind, the 54-year-old could do with receiving a boost, no matter how much confidence he still has in his managerial skills. And it looks like he’s set to receive one, ahead of the trip to face Brighton Hove Albion.
As reported by the Daily Mail, Phil Jagielka is targeting a return to the side, after missing the last four matches with a hamstring injury. He said:
"“The injury is all good now. The Burnley game (which Everton lost 1-0) came a day or two too early, but with the international break, hopefully training will go well and I will be pushing for selection.”"
Hamstring injuries are notoriously awkward to deal with and as Jagielka points out himself, he hopes training will go well this week. Regardless, seeing him return to the starting XI is arguably just what Everton need.
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Michael Keane has only just come back from injury himself, while the usually reliable Ashley Williams has struggled to find form. It has all resulted in the Blues’ defence having too many mental lapses, after a solid start to the competitive campaign.
Now, it should be noted Jagielka himself has had a couple of poor outings this season. However, he still represents another option for Koeman to consider, in light of Williams’ recent performances.
In addition, Everton need all the leadership they can get, with Jagielka admitting the senior players need to step up and get the season back on track. As per the Daily Mail, he said:
"“It is a massive role for the captain, vice-captain and experienced players: to go out there and show that leadership through our performances,.“Hopefully once we get back from the international break we will put together a decent run and everyone will forget about the sticky start we have had.”"
Jagielka signed a one-year contract extension prior to the season, stressing he was fully committed to helping the Blues win a trophy. First things first though, if he can just help the team get some positive results, Evertonians will be happy with this.
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Is Jagielka’s return just what Everton need, to try and get their season back on track? More generally speaking, what has the Blues’ captain meant to you over the years? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.