Jagielka prepared for high times

Everton defender Phil Jagielka is confident "exciting times" lie ahead for him and the club after he committed his future to the Toffees for another four years. The centre-back's previous contract did not expire until 2014 but he has signed an improved new four-year deal. Now the 28-year-old is looking forward to seeing improvements over the term of his new deal. "We had talks a while ago and I knew it would only be a case of getting it signed and sealed," he said. "I can concentrate on the football and hopefully there are exciting times ahead for me and the club." He added: "I am absolutely delighted to commit my future to Everton. I had a little while left on my last contract but it is obviously nice to get a new one." Jagielka has been one of manager David Moyes' major success stories since joining from Sheffield United in 2007. And the Toffees boss, who this week celebrated his ninth anniversary at the club, is confident the player can be part of a profitable future as he strives to bring silverware to Goodison Park. "It is not fashionable to be a manager for nine years, it is fashionable to change it around and get someone in a bit more trendy," said the Scot. "Some people will get a bit fed up and think it is time for the manager to go but I feel it is time to kick on and get better. "I am always driving myself to get more. I work hard to stay in my job, I don't take it for granted and I have to keep working hard else someone else will be there to take my place. "My ambition is to take Everton as far as I can, I would like to win something."

Source: PA