Thumping home the winning penalty past a helpless Ben Foster in front of 80,000 spectators to send Everton through to the FA Cup Final might just make up for not being a PFA Player of the Year nominee. However, whilst five United players occupy places amongst the award short list, surely their conqueror Phil Jagielka deserves at least a mention.
Previously credited for his versatility, this season under the guidance of David Moyes, Jagielka has wowed fans and pundits alike with his impressive performances for The Toffees. His eye-catching displays at the heart of Everton's defence led to an England call-up after Moyes publicly praised his player. Continuing his delightful form Jagielka has not missed a minute of the domestic season, whilst playing the first 45 minutes for the national side against European champions Spain.
Though whilst fellow centre backs Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic are nominated for the PFA award, the latter holding the bookies favourite spot along with Steven Gerrard, Everton captain Phil Neville believes Jagielka should be a contender.
"It took him a while to find his feet and perhaps he didn't realise how big a club Everton is. But once the penny dropped he has never looked back and he has become a massive player for us."
Despite one of the few mistakes made by Jagielka this term leading to a Spanish goal in the friendly international, as Neville puts it, "For 42 minutes he had been the best England player on the pitch. Like every Evertonian, I was so disappointed when he was taken off at half time. But he came back and showed there was no adverse effect...You make your own judgement in terms of consistency and reliability and Jags hasn't let anyone down on either front."
It seems Jagielka may have the backing of club compatriot Phil Neville, yet it seems those with the power have failed to notice a player who has not only improved considerably but who has also provided a rock at the back for Everton, next to his fellow international team mate Joleon Lescott.
Yet for Jagielka, banishing the haunting memory of an FA Cup semi-final defeat against Arsenal, and instead progressing to the Wembley encounter with Chelsea should be pleasing enough for now. With key matches left to play in the league, Jagielka is now determined the club's FA Cup success will not distract the players from their target of clinching a European place this season.
An England call-up, a European finish, and an FA Cup triumph would therefore just about make up for missing out on a personal award. Yet from a football fan's point of view, it would be nice to see someone outside the usual crowd pick up an accolade once in a while.
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