Season › 2013-14 › News Jagielka stands by his record alongside Gary Cahill Lyndon Lloyd , 28 May, 0comments | Jump to most recent Phil Jagielka has admitted some frustration at concerns over England's defence and the talk of John Terry's absence, pointing to his 10-match unbeaten stretch alongside Chelsea's Gary Cahill. Jagielka says that he expects to be fully fit by the time the World Cup kicks off in a little over two weeks' time where is expected to be a first-choice starter alongside Cahill. He believes that England's record of having conceded just four goals in qualifying – more importantly, his partnership with Cahill has just one goal against – speaks for itself and has brushed off claims that the Three Lions would be better off had the veteran Terry been included. “It's difficult. I can't say I particularly like to hear it, but I understand why I do," he said. “I can't control what people say. I was asked the other day, that while our attack looks good would our defence be okay? I felt like laughing. “Our defensive record in the qualifiers was pretty decent, but I can't stop what people are going to ask. I stop, smile and get on with it.” “As a defender partnerships are important," he continued. "If you have two players who work well together they may be a better bet than two superior players. So I can understand why people talk about Terry.” Jagielka has had to wait for his chance to feature regularly at a major tournament but with the likes of Terry and Rio Ferdinand reaching the end of their careers, his opportunity has arrived at the age of 31. “My career path has been slightly different to some of the lads who have been involved with England since they were teenagers," the former Sheffield United man said. “If I had got a chance I would have tried to seize the moment at [Euro2012], but it wasn't to be. “Hopefully I will this time. I know at 31 I won't be around for ever and ever and this could be my one tournament.” About these ads © ToffeeWeb