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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Adam Jones

Why Phil Jagielka needs to be offered a contract extension at Everton

Everton's win over Arsenal has led to an interesting debate over one man in particular.

Phil Jagielka proved to be the match winner as his 10th minute strike was enough to secure a 1-0 victory for Marco Silva's side on Sunday - although the hosts really could have won by more goals.

But what made his display so intriguing was the fact that he wasn't even meant to be starting the game.

Michael Keane was named in the Everton side when the teams were announced an hour before kick off, but was ruled out after the warm-up with a virus.

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That led to the club captain stepping in for his first match at Goodison Park since the previous May and putting in a brilliant performance in the process.

But, with the 36-year-old's contract set to run out at the end of the season, should he be given an extension to his current deal?

The ECHO put the question to Everton fans on Monday - and the results were decisive.

Phil Jagielka celebrates his goal (Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)

83% of those who took part wanted to see the experienced defender given an extension on his Goodison Park career, with only 17% believing he should be let go.

And supporters also took to social media to explain exactly why Jagielka should be kept on at Everton.

What you said on Facebook

Daniel Roderick: "To lose Jags and Baines in the summer would be really negative for the dressing room. They are the core experienced players behind the scene. I would definitely be keeping one of them on for a bit part role, but key dressing room influence."

John Fleet: "As a squad player yeah. Him and Baines, if we get rid of them then that's two more players we need to buy this summer whereas if they stay and are happy with the bit part role then we can replace them next summer. It would be stupid for anyone to say get rid of either of them this summer."

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Marty Slimming: "Yes I’d give him another year contract! He deserves it."

Peter Vernon: " Deserves to remain. Can still do a quality job."

Joe Blackler: "Not really, at the most a year extension because of his leadership & to supplement the back line. But for the most part, he’s on the verge of hanging his boots up & should move into coaching really. Could be a real asset as a defensive coach. Good to see him get the goal & clean sheet though. A great performance for a man who’s days are numbered."

Mike Donnan: " I said it last season and I've said it a few times this, he is superb to have around and he is still good for 5/10 games a season."

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What you said on Twitter

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