Source: SKY_Sports
Rodwell praises 'bossy' Neville
Everton teenager Jack Rodwell says playing with experienced professionals like Phil Neville helps lift the pressure heading into a big game.
Rodwell, 18, will almost certainly figure as a substitute in the FA Cup final against Manchester United on 30th May.
The youngster, who notched his eighth start of the season in the goalless draw with Tottenham at the weekend, could even start at Wembley should Everton's injury problems not improve.
Despite his youth, Rodwell insists he feels less pressure - even in big games - knowing that he is playing alongside experienced professionals.
Advice"I had Phil Neville screaming down my ear all game (against Tottenham)," said Rodwell.
"As the captain he's trying to give everyone advice, which is good."
Rodwell had plenty of advice, too, from his midfield colleagues Tim Cahill and Steven Pienaar as he forged a bright partnership on the right with another youngster, Dan Gosling.
Rodwell said: "I had experienced professionals all around me and they do their best to help the youngsters like Dan and myself, so to have them alongside us is good.
"Me and Dan get on well. When we play together we always link up well, we help each other as we were on the same side of the pitch, so we were talking to each other throughout the game.
"The squad is getting smaller due to the injuries so hopefully I will stay in the team. If not, then I will keep working hard to try and get back in.
"We are still aiming for fifth place, and I hope to continue to be involved. The knowledge myself and Dan are picking up will give us confidence. We have got to get that fifth place."
PraiseNeville himself heaped praise on player performances so far this term, in particular those of goalkeeper and former Manchester United team-mate Tim Howard.
"From day one Tim was in a similar position to me," said Neville.
"He had loved playing for Manchester United and probably thought he wouldn't play for another club in England, but he ended up coming here and found the perfect place for him.
"The environment and the team spirit has suited him down to the ground. You can count the number of mistakes he has made on one hand over the three years he has been here.
"He is definitely one of the top three keepers in the Premier League.
"Consistency is his key and he is getting better all the time too. Every good team needs a great keeper and we have got one."
He added: "Tim made some great stops in the semi-final win over United, and for us to win the cup we are probably going to need him to do so again."
