Source: SKY_Sports
Jags: We've proved Rafa wrong
Phil Jagielka is determined to prove Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez wrong by lifting the FA Cup.
Benitez referred to Everton as 'a small club' after a frustrating goalless draw in 2007 and the Toffees have been out to prove him wrong ever since.
Everton booked themselves into the FA Cup final with a penalty shoot-out victory over Manchester United after a goalless 120 minutes and will now face Chelsea on May 30th.
"A lot of people think we are in the shadows of Liverpool all the time. If you look at what they have done, they have been more successful," said the former Sheffield United defender.
"But when Benitez said we are a small club, it is a bit embarrassing. We have proved we're not by getting to the final."
Sunday's victory over United has put them one step away from their first major trophy since Paul Rideout's 1995 FA Cup winner and Jagielka will be aiming to emulate that team by lifting the trophy.
"If we can win the FA Cup, it will put us on the map again and then hopefully we can go from strength to strength."
Jagielka has been a huge success at Goodison Park since moving in 2007 for £4million and he is targeting a strong finish to the season on both domestic fronts.
"We want to finish well in the league, and fifth place is still up for grabs.
"It is about time the squad we have here comes of age and starts to win trophies. Playing in the final is the right way to go about it."
On a personal note, Jagielka has been pleased with his progress since his move.
"The last 18 months have been phenomenal for me, with getting in the team more regularly and winning my first England cap.
"I have been playing quite well and getting in the Everton side most weeks, so it has been a dream move on my behalf.
"It will make it even more special if we can win some silverware."
