Lynchpin or liability?: 40-cap Everton man presents Silva with huge derby decision - opinion

Everton got back to winning ways with a comfortable 3-0 victory over a Cardiff City side that, despite having been buoyed by recent results, were humbled this week in back-to-back defeats. One major talking point emerging from the clash was Phil Jagielka’s return to the starting XI.

On the chalkboard

Prior to their dispatch of the Bluebirds, Marco Silva’s side had endured a torrid run of form that had seen them take just one win from their last six matches in all competitions, with the Toffees defence of set-pieces proving a big weak point – all of the Goodison Park outfit’s three goals conceded against Millwall in the FA Cup 4th round clash were from such situations.

Therefore, the midweek clash against a physical Cardiff side represented yet another big test for the Everton defence. The 17 days worth of rest afforded to the Merseyside outfit, though, seemed to help Silva solidify his back line.

A lot of credit should go to Phil Jagielka, who made just his third appearance of the season, for shoring up a previously leaky defence.

A lynchpin or a liability?

The 36-year-old was restored at centre-back alongside Michael Keane and his presence seemed to calm the entire defensive contingent, aside from some sloppiness in the early moments.

The 40-cap international might not have the legs anymore, but his positioning and footballing brain are unrivalled in a Toffees defence that often seems to lack sense.

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Winning 4 aerial duels against the Bluebirds and earning a match rating of 7.13, according to WhoScored, the Everton captain staked a strong claim for a starting spot against Liverpool this weekend.

In the upcoming Merseyside derby, there will be no room for mistakes from Everton’s point of view – the Reds’ front three will more than likely rip them to shreds if they seize upon a loose ball – and so Jagielka’s lack of pace could be detrimental to his side, even if they could sorely do with his leadership.

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