Phil Jagielka admits he would have liked to stay at Sheffield United to help them regain Premier League place

After 309 appearances in red and white, Jagielka’s name featured on the released list submitted by the Blades earlier this week, joining John Lundstram, Jack Rodwell and Simon Moore out of the exit door at Bramall Lane.

Jagielka was informed last month that his time at United was coming to an end, and had a low-key farewell when he was introduced off the bench against Burnley in front of a few thousand Blades fans in United’s last game of their relegation season.

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“I was hoping to extend my stay for another year,” Jagielka admitted, speaking on BBC Football Heaven.

“When I found out I wouldn’t be kept on we didn’t have a manager. That’s changed now [with the appointment of Slavisa Jokanović] which is a positive thing for the club, but I knew a couple of weeks ago the journey was going to end and it was an emotional time.

“It was nice to get the chance to say goodbye. It would have been nice to get the chance to play a part in what will hopefully be a successful season for the club next year, but that won’t be the case and I’ll have to watch from afar.”

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The former England international began his career with the Blades, coming through the club’s academy before joining Everton following United’s last relegation from the top flight in 2007.

He re-signed for United after leaving Goodison Park following the Blades’ promotion from the Championship and despite making only a handful of Premier League appearances second time around, was an invaluable source of support and knowledge for a squad lacking in top-flight experience and knowhow.

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“It all depends again,” Jagielka admitted, when asked if he was planning to hang up his boots now ahead of turning 39 in August.

“I’ve spoken to people around me and everyone’s encouraging me to continue but it’s all about what’s on the table. I’ll put my CV out there and see who’s interested and if no-one’s interested that I’m wanting, it’ll be time to hang them up.”

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