Everton teenager Jack Rodwell has revealed his Dad is keeping him on the right track.

"I started out playing football in the park with my Dad," said Rodwell yesterday, speaking from England's coastal retreat in Varberg. "My Dad was a bit of a ball player, but he couldn't really be bothered playing.

"I heard from a lot of people he could have done things but just didn't have the right attitude. He realised he didn't take the path when he got the chance, so he made sure I've stuck to it. I've not done anything yet, so he keeps me working hard."

Everton spotted Rodwell at the age of six, playing with his brother's team, Birkdale United, made up of kids two years older.

"My parents said it was maybe a bit too young, but a year later I went for trials and I've been at Everton ever since," he said. "I never really supported anyone when I was younger, but I'm an Evertonian now."