Everton boss Roberto Martinez was delighted with Antolin Alcaraz's performance in victory over Aston Villa.
Martinez went with Alcaraz ahead of Sylvain Distin.
"I think for Antolin it is the first time he has had a solid 16 weeks of work with no niggles or problems," he said.
"He looked really, really sharp in training so it was just that he was probably a little ahead in his match fitness than Distin, who had a little knock and a few times not training.
"Antolin looked ready for the opportunity and he showed everyone he is ready to fight for his place and I was very happy with his performance. Distin in a very important player and he will carry on that way.
"Sylvain is always there to help the youngsters, give good advice and he has lasted so long as a professional because he understands that in football you need to be at your best and ready to compete.
"Nobody is better than Sylvain at understanding that."
