Distin: I want to pass on my experience to younger players
Veteran defender Sylvain Distin is keen to pass on his knowledge and experiences to any of the less experienced Everton defenders who will listen and learn.
The Frenchman has over 400 games in the top flight of the English league and has recently signed 1 one year contract extension to see him through until his 37th birthday.
Distin has already taken young England defender John Stones under his wing as the young centre-back looks to make an impression in the Everton team.
Distin told evertonfc.com: “I’m at a point in my career where it is good to pass on my experience and if some of the lads are receptive and want to listen, then why not?
“I’ve always been like that and it’s not because anyone has asked me. I try to help them and the best way to do that is not to make their lives difficult.
“We have a great example in John Stones, who is an amazing player.
“I remember when I got injured and he played his first game [at Stoke]. I told him to make sure that I wasn’t getting back into this team and that it’s his job to keep me out of the squad.
“That’s football and I try to pass on a bit of my experience. Football is about challenges and competition.”
He added: “The atmosphere since I have been here has always been amazing and that’s very important. One of the strengths is that we are a real team and we enjoy playing and training with each other.
“It doesn’t mean that we all love each other but we definitely enjoy spending time with each other. You always judge a squad on results so we can talk about it at the end of the season.”
How good is it to have the experience of Sylvain Distin around the squad? Have your say at www.theevertonforum.com
How has he missed out on player of the season so far? The best bit of business we have done in many years was done when he first signed for us. My favourite player I think.
Agree with that Win. He is brilliant to have around the squad. Getting closer to retiring, but still a massive part of our team.