TEMPTING NEW FACES

Phil Jagielka's progress sends a message to new signings.

Phil Jagielka's progress since his move to Everton sends a compelling message to prospective new signings.

That is the verdict of Chief Executive Keith Wyness, who has been delighted with the international recognition a host of the Blues' star performers have received for England in recent seasons.

Phil Neville, Andrew Johnson, Joleon Lescott and Jagielka have all received international honours for England in the last 12 months.

And Fabio Capello has been a regular visitor to Goodison following his appointment at the FA. They are all factors that reflect Everton's increased prominence on the national and European stage.

Wyness said: “The number of times we had the England manager here last season said a lot. There was a buzz around the place, we were playing good football.

“Phil really came on after a slowish start but kicked on and he deserved his cap. So it’s nice to be recognised and watched as much as we are now. But we have great messages being sent out in lots of different areas not just in Phil, who was looking to make a step up.

“Yes, we have shown him he can move on and get into England but we can show young players they can come here and get a chance in the team, as Victor and Vaughany have shown.

“And there’s a whole history of players coming through the ranks, with the likes of Leon Osman and Tony Hibbert.

“So there are strong messages at every level that Everton is an exciting club that is moving forward.”