Rodwell: I didn’t have a doubt in my mind

Jack Rodwell has insisted he “always knew” he was going to sign a new deal with Everton.

The highly-rated midfielder was heavily linked with a move to Manchester United before he penned a new five-year deal in May.

He told the Liverpool Echo: “When these questions were getting asked (about my future) I always knew I was going to sign a new contract.

“I didn’t have a doubt in my mind. It’s good to get it out of the way so I can focus on the new season, but it was never an issue.”

He added: “I’m 19 so I’m still young, but my main aim is to get in the team and hold down a regular place. Last season was good for me and even if I only feature in a similar way it’s not the end of the world.”