World Cup 2014: Phil Jagielka frustrated with speculation over John Terry return

Phil Jagielka admits he got frustrated by the constant talk of John Terry returning to the England squad ahead of the World Cup.

Jagielka, who has finally recovered from a hamstring injury, has never been on the losing side for England in 10 starts alongside Gary Cahill.

Nevertheless, there had been calls for Terry, who retired from international duty in September 2012, to make himself available for Brazil.

The Everton centre half admitted: 'It's difficult. I can't say I like to hear it, but I understand why I do.

'Obviously Cahill and Terry play together at Chelsea, they play in the Champions League and were contenders to win the Premier League.

'As a defender, partnerships are important. 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.

'England's defence in the qualifiers was pretty decent, but I can't decide what people ask. I stop, smile and get on with it.'

Terry, 33, has always insisted he would never come out of international retirement and head coach Roy Hodgson hasn't even discussed it with him.

Although England's defence does look vulnerable, Jagielka and Cahill will be Hodgson's first pick at the World Cup this summer.

The Everton defender has won 31 caps and is expected to face Peru in England's World Cup send-off at Wembley on Friday evening.