Everton youngster Jack Rodwell admits he is preferring a midfield role to defence.

The switch to central defence is expected to come sooner rather than later.

But Rodwell said: "At the moment, I prefer playing as a box-to-box midfielder. That is how I have been operating for Everton and I can see myself doing it for a while yet.

"The role has been more defensive than attacking but I can get forward, just as I can also play centre half. But I'd say my favoured position was that holding role in midfield. I am happy to carry on there.

"I don't think there's any need for me to drop back into central defence yet. Maybe it will happen in a few years, when I have gained more experience and maturity.

"It's hard to play a lad of my age at centre half in the Premier League where you come across the likes of Didier Drogba and Fernando Torres. That would be a tough ask for any teenager so I'm more than content where I am."