Jagielka ready for supporting role

Everton defender Phil Jagielka is looking forward to a "fantastic" World Cup - whether he makes Fabio Capello's England squad or not.

The 27-year-old is back in contention for a place in the party to travel to South Africa after overcoming a 10-month lay-off to play a part in Everton's strong finish to the season.

Jagielka told Press Association Sport: "You dream about playing for your country in the World Cup and if I get the opportunity to travel with the squad, especially after the previous 10 months, it would be amazing."

He added: "If I am lucky enough to go I'll be buzzing - but, if not, I'll still be smiling, I'll still be putting my shirt on supporting the boys.

"There will be plenty of boys to support anyway, as far as club lads go. I won't support them all for too long, but I will at least at the group stages. It will be fantastic."

Jagielka had just forced his way into the England side when he ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament in a club game against Manchester City last April and did not return to first-team action until February.

He underwent surgery in the days immediately following his injury and could only watch as Everton took on Chelsea in the FA Cup final last May.

"It's football and I can't complain," said the former Sheffield United player. "I'd had eight or nine fantastic seasons and then the first major injury I had last year ruled me out for some time.

"If I can keep myself fit now for the remainder of my career I will look back feeling I was one of the lucky ones having not spent that much time on the sidelines.

"It's not been the best year but all I can do is smile. I have had enough of being sulky and moody. I've not played a lot of football but the last couple of months have flown by."