Phil Jagielka has signed for the EFL Championship side Stoke City in the January transfer window. Stoke City was among the favourites to sign the veteran defender after he left Derby County.
The 39-year-old defender’s Derby contract was due to expire on Monday. Derby manager Wayne Rooney longed for the extension of the player’s stay.
“With Jags, everything is agreed in terms of the numbers and again we are waiting on the EFL.
“I am sure by tomorrow [Friday] I’ll know exactly what I can and can’t do.”
However, Jagielka’s deal was cancelled after Rooney’s hopes of extending contracts were put on hold due to the ongoing takeover saga.
A brief statement from Derby says:
“Derby County would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Phil for his commitment and efforts both on and off the pitch whilst with the club and wish him every success in his future endeavours.”
The former English international started his youth career with Sheffield United, eventually earning the senior cap with them. He went on to sign a short-term contract for Derby in 2021.
Stokes City was monitoring the entire contract situation and was determined to sign the veteran defender. Jagielka has started 20 of the 25 league games and has been the first-choice centre-back for Derby County.
Verdict on the signing
Stoke City will immensely benefit from this signing as Phil Jagielka carries a huge experience with him. Moreover, he had a fantastic season with Derby County.
Derby has the fourth-best defensive record in the Championship and Jagielka’s has a large contribution in it. Meanwhile, Stoke has already brought in Taylor Harwood-Bellis this week on loan from Manchester City.
On the other hand, Stoke struggled after Michael O’Neill lost Harry Souttar for the season due to injury and sent Leo Ostigard back to Brighton.
However, Stoke City seems fortified their defence well with these winter signings. Meanwhile, the fanbase is also happy with the signing of the English veteran. Looking into all the factors, the signing is a good one.
