Former Everton and Sheffield United defender David Unsworth has revealed Phil Jagielka was always keen to return to Goodison Park.

Jagielka was rejected by Everton as a teenager before establishing himself at the Blades and Unsworth, in his column for evertonfc.com, wrote: "We all knew at Sheffield United that he was a special talent. I was trying to get into him about coming to Everton before it happened and I like to think that I planted a few seeds in his head!

"In truth though, he always wanted to come back to Everton. He was here as a youngster and his biggest disappointment in his early career was getting released from here. His dream was always to come back to Everton and I am delighted he did that. He certainly hasn't disappointed.

"He and Joleon Lescott compliment each other very well; they both have good pace, they are good in the air and they both love a tackle. In fact, I think Jags would rather win a 50-50 tackle than score a goal!

"It's their first full season together really, and they are both still young, so it bodes well for the future."