Everton defender Phil Jagielka has revealed how he was rejected by three top clubs before finding his feet at Sheffield United.

He failed to impress Stoke, Everton and Manchester City before finally performing for the coaches on a trial with Sheffield United. Back then, though, it was as a midfielder that he hoped to have a future.

"It was only in emergencies that I ever got asked to play at centre half," he told the Mail on Sunday. "And while I wouldn't necessarily say I'm a late developer, I guess I spent a long time in the Championship and for much of that time playing in midfield.

"It was only later on, under Neil Warnock, that I started playing regularly at the back. But I was there when we got promoted to the Premier League and even then I relished the challenge of coming up against the top players. I didn't feel intimidated. I always enjoyed it."