Phil Jagielka is more than willing to be the elder statesmen of the Everton team and use his experience to help the younger members of the squad. The defender captained the Toffees against MLS side DC United on Saturday, when the English visitors won 3-1.
And Jagielka expressed his delight at being skipper: "With the gaffer making me captain it is an added responsibility.
"I'd like to think that if any of the young lads have any issues or need anything on or off the pitch they'd come and see me.
"There are a few of us in that category and it's a role I'll be looking to do as often as possible."
And he also praised the performances of two of the club's young players - Ross Barkley and Conor McAleny.
Jagielka added: "It's fantastic to have them with us. Sometimes the young lads come on tour and sort of make up the numbers and don't get much game time.
"It's nice for the gaffer to give them a decent run out and Ross and Conor will go home excited."
