Source: Daily_Mail
Everton starlet Jack Rodwell snubs Manchester United interest and signs new five-year deal
Everton teenager Jack Rodwell has signed a new five-year contract. [LNB]The news is a huge blow to Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who regards 19-year-old Rodwell as the next big thing in English football and a future international star. [LNB]But it will delight Goodison boss David Moyes, who lost Wayne Rooney to United in a £27million deal after he starred at Euro 2004 as an 18-year-old. United had been prepared to pay around £15m for Rodwell, whose wages increase to more than £20,000 a week. [LNB] Class act: Rodwell (second right) has penned a long-term deal at Goodison[LNB] Rodwell is primarily a midfielder although he is also comfortable in the centre of defence. He scored his first goal for Everton at 17 and scoredhis side's third goal in a 3-1 win over United earlier this season. Hehas now played more than 50 times for the Goodison Park club.[LNB]Moyes has said the player could develop into the next Rio Ferdinand, stating: 'He's so comfortable on the ball. He is best in central midfield at the moment but by the time he's 23 or 24, he may be a top centre-half. [LNB]'Rio started in central midfield and eventually moved back. Jack has similar qualities. He's so laid-back, he is horizontal.'[LNB] Top prospect: Rodwell celebrates after scoring against Manchester United[LNB]Rodwell only signed a five-year contract in February last year but due to his progress and interest from other clubs Everton have rewarded him with an improved deal. [LNB]Only last week Moyes warned his players that leaving Everton was not always the route to success. [LNB]'Some of the players who have left Everton might say it was the right place for them after all,' said the Scot. 'At the end of their careers, they might look back and say Everton was the best time - they enjoy it here. [LNB]'Even Thomas Gravesen, who went to Real Madrid, would say the same thing. There are lots of players who are going to look back at Everton and say they had a really good time, without winning anything obviously.'[LNB]Rodwell said he had never taken any notice of speculation about his future and had always been committed to Everton.[LNB]'I'm perfectly happy at the club and I'm very happy to be signing a new deal,' he said.[LNB]'I have enjoyed every minute of being at this club and I try not to look at speculation that much, I just try to play my best on the pitch.' [LNB] Man United, Spurs and Liverpool on alert as Pienaar rejects Everton dealFergie misses out on Rodwell: Everton boy wonder pens new five-year dealMan City want Arteta! Mancini lines up £20m bid and new move for MilnerEVERTON FC
