Everton youngster not fazed by United rumours

Everton youngster Jack Rodwell insists he doesn’t focus on the stories linking him with a move to Old Trafford.

The 18 year old midfielder has become a regular at Goodison Park in the absence of Mikel Arteta and it’s thought that his impressive displays have attracted attention from the likes of Manchester united and Chelsea.

Rodwell, however, is only focusing on playing well for Everton.

“I don’t read anything into the speculation,” he told The Times. “All I’m focusing on is the next game. I’ve got to be ready to start the next game and be in the manager’s thoughts.”

He admitted that the attention was flattering, but reiterated his happiness at Everton and thanked manager David Moyes for the faith he has shown in him.

“Obviously anyone would be flattered by interest from other clubs, but I really am happy playing for Everton. I enjoy it there. It’s where I’ve always been and I love it.

“The gaffer has been brilliant for me. He has put his trust in me, playing me at such a young age, and he has always tried to look after me. I’ve got a lot to thank him for.”

As Everton’s youngest ever player to represent the club in European competition, Rodwell admits it was strange playing alongside seasoned professionals when he first burst onto the scene, but he’s now enjoying battling it out with the best the Premier League has to offer.

“At first it was a bit surreal playing in the Premier League at 16, coming up against world-class players, because it had always been my dream.

“But quickly it becomes second nature to you. It has happened with me a lot. I played in the Under 18s when I was 14, then the reserves at 15 and then the first team.

“At first it’s daunting, but then you get used to it.”

The turning point in his career, he believes, was last season’s FA Cup replay against Liverpool at Goodison Park where he came on as a second half substitute. His form, together with the long term injury of Mikel Arteta, have allowed him to become first choice midfielder ever since.

“That’s when I thought: ‘This is the biggest stage and I feel like I can do it’,” he said

“That was against big players and it was a massive occasion, the derby, and I came on and felt in control.

“That was probably the turning point.”

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