JAGS' OPTIMISM

Phil Jagielka is viewing England’s clash with Trinidad and Tobago as the game in which he will earn his first cap.

England boss, Fabio Capello is travelling to the Caribbean without a number of his more experienced players and that has left Jagielka feeling optimistic.

The no nonsense defender was part of the 27 man squad that was available to face USA on Wednesday night, however with Capello only being allowed to use six of his 16 substitutes, it was never likely that Jagielka was going to get on the field.

The versatile player explained: “It would have been nice to get on at Wembley but, realistically, I don’t think it was ever going to happen but maybe it will be different in Trinidad.

“It looks like it is going to be a younger team and, if I’m lucky, I might get a minute or two. We joined up on Thursday, the Champions League players arrived on Saturday and then David Beckham came on Sunday. The whole experience has been brilliant.”

Although the former Sheffield United defender has been mixing with high profile players such as David Beckham, he has explained that the training regime has not differed too much from the ones he endures at Finch Farm.

He continued: “It’s opened my eyes a little bit. Joining Everton last summer did that as well. Training was very intense and quick but nothing much more than what I have been used to at Everton. It’s just been fantastic.

“Not only are the players first class, they are nice people off the pitch too. There’s been quite a few new lads but it’s been easy enough to settle in. After all, I’m not the hardest person to talk to! The only thing that has been missing so far has been the first cap.

“I’d been looking forward to getting here ever since I got the message when I was out with my mum and dad after the Newcastle game. It was a bit nerve-wracking but it’s just been fantastic. All I want is that first cap. That would be the perfect end to the year.”