Jagielka: Gibson the ´complete midfielder´

Everton defender Phil Jagielka has expressed his delight at the return to fitness of team-mate Darron Gibson.

The Ireland international made his comeback from a thigh injury against Arsenal after three months out, lasting 73 minutes of the 1-1 draw.

And his team-mate described the former Manchester United man as ‘the complete midfielder’.

“We have been a little bit light in that area over the last few months, so it is nice to have him back,” Jagielka told the club’s official website.

“He learnt his trade at Manchester United. He’s composed and has a good range of passing. He knows when you put the ball in behind and when to play to feet. He’s not afraid to tackle or head, so he is pretty much the complete midfielder.

“He’s a character as well and good to have around the dressing room.”

Everton recovered from conceding within 52 seconds against the Gunners to draw and Jagielka was impressed by his side’s character.

“Fair credit to the boys – they dug in and we played some decent football,” he said.

“We put them under pressure but unfortunately the second goal never came. After the first minute we were value for our point.

“We know we are playing some good football and we mix it up as well. Felli was again a great target man for us and brought a lot of people into play.

“Having Gibbo back with (Leon Osman), we have two great footballers making us tick. Stevie (Pienaar) and Bainesy (Leighton Baines) speak for themselves, so we have got some decent footballers out there.”