Drenthe the spark for Everton, says Jagielka

Everton defender Phil Jagielka is hoping midfielder Royston Drenthe can make a swift return in order to give the side some attacking flair.

The Dutch winger has missed Everton’s past three Premier League matches with a foot injury, with David Moyes’ side failing to score in two of those encounters.

“Hopefully he can be fit enough to play some part in the next two games,” Jagielka told evertontv.

“He gives us that bit of flair and spark so hopefully he can play a big part and score a couple or set up a couple over the next couple of weeks.”

“It’s hard to know where he is going to pop up but we need that unpredictability because sometimes it’s been a bit too easy to mark us. Offensively he adds a massive threat with his ability, his pace and his shooting.”

Jagielka emphasised the importance of scoring the first goal against Norwich City this weekend, as Everton have struggled to break down sides protecting a lead.

“Hopefully we can get the first goal and they will have to come out and press us to try and get the goal themselves,” he said.

“We have found it hard in recent weeks to come from behind because teams have just sat in.”