Get Jagielka on the field!

THERE are so many issues around today’s FA Cup semi-final, one of which is whether Wayne Rooney can take a step closer to filling the one gap in his trophy cabinet. It’s extraordinary that one of the best English players of his generation has not been to an FA Cup final since 2005 — and never won the trophy. If Everton are to end Rooney and Manchester United’s FA Cup dreams, they will have to defend properly and a lot will depend on Phil Jagielka’s fitness. Even if he is only 80 per cent recovered from a hamstring problem, this is a game Jagielka has to play. John Stones has been linked with a host of clubs once again since Everton’s 4-0 defeat in the derby and while he needs to play at Wembley, Roberto Martinez cannot afford to be without Jagielka, who has given tremendous service to Everton over the last nine years.