Everton defender Phil Jagielka is ready to establish himself in England's defence.

Jagielka is in strong contention to partner his former club-mate Joleon Lescott at the heart of the defence in Tuesday's demanding World Cup qualifier with Poland in Warsaw.

He said: "Would I like to be leader of the back-line? I'd like to. I've just turned 30 and I'm not exactly a young lad anymore.

"I've played quite a few games in the Premier League and the Championship before that to get my experience.

"You can't look too much into it. John's decided to retire now and there's a few of us competing for the two spots available.

"You'll have to wait a little bit longer to see who takes on the mantle of leading the back-four - but I'll be chucking my name in the hat."