WHEN it comes to being apathetic at best about their players representing England, Evertonians are fully justified.

Wayne Rooney took Euro 2004 by storm – and was sold weeks later; Nick Barmby returned to the England fold four years earlier at Euro 2000 after Bill Kenwright wrote to the FA to champion his cause – and made the most deplorable of switches before the summer had ended.

David Moyes transformed Joleon Lescott from a Championship hopeful into a Rolls Royce of a defender who Steve McClaren brought into the England fold – and eventually money-bags Manchester City began to covet.

Conversely, one of the club’s most celebrated midfielders, Howard Kendall, never even got a cap.

So it’s understandable that few will be getting giddy about the prospect of John Terry’s decision to retire meaning further chances for Phil Jagielka.

It’s not that he doesn’t deserve it – he does – but the cynics may fear that further exposure on the international stage could arguably hasten his departure.

However, Jagielka is one of those players who has benefited massively from playing for England and Everton have so far reaped the rewards.

The centre back continues to mature into an outstanding performer with many strings to his bow, some developing rapidly since he has grown into his international football role.

His ability to react quickly and defend on the break as a recovery-specialist is perhaps his biggest asset, and Jagielka has always been the type to put his head where others wouldn’t dare.

But his reading of the game has undoubtedly benefited from playing against top European sides, alas a benefit not always available to him with his club. What’s more he has evolved in many less tangible ways. His confidence has risen and his leadership capabilities have improved to the extent many now mark him out as Everton’s next captain. And if Everton are able to capitalise on their solid start to the season and jostle their way back into Europe, it will owe much to Jagielka’s defensive nous.

As for fearing whether he will have his head turned – that could be academic if his characteristic resilience sees them finish in a Champions League berth.