Everton defender Phil Jagielka says Darron Gibson is becoming a major influence on their fortunes.

Jagielka has hailed the growing influence of Gibson and tipped him to emerge as the driving force behind Everton's assault on the top four.

"Gibbo is massively important," said Jagielka. "For us to have someone who can keep the opposing defence on their toes purely knowing if he does get a bit of time, he can be like our quarterback and start putting in some fantastic passes.

"It makes playing against us a lot harder when we have people like Darron in the team and Leon Osman by the side of him. They are two different footballers but equally as important. Ossie is good in tight spaces and finding the little passes, while Gibbo is such a good passer and has a great range."