Phil Jagielka backs Tom Cleverley to become a success at Everton

Phil Jagielka has said that new Everton teammate Tom Cleverley has proved his critics wrong after spending time on loan away from Manchester United.

Cleverley was often criticised while at Manchester, but the youngster played an integral part in keeping loan club Aston Villa in the Premier League and guiding them to an FA Cup final.

"He's really excited to come here because it is a fresh start for him," Jagielka told reporters. "It was nice that he had the chance to go out on loan last season because things weren't going too well for him at Manchester United.

"He proved a lot of people wrong at Aston Villa, he obviously scored against us which I am sure he will take a little bit of stick for when he comes in. He's a really good addition. He's a great player, nice and tidy, and will fit into the manager's thoughts very well. He can play in a number of positions as well.

"He played in an FA Cup final not too long ago and he's got quite a few England caps as well, so he has a lot of experience for a young man. It's something we can use to our advantage."

Just over a year ago almost 20,000 people signed an online petition demanding the midfielder was not selected for the World Cup.