Source: Liverpool_Echo
Everton FC manager David Moyes praises Sylvain Distin's start with Blues
DAVID MOYES today hailed Sylvain Distin's commanding start to life as an Everton player as he prepares to make his first return to Portsmouth.[LNB]The French central defender was signed in the wake of Joleon Lescott's move to Manchester City but has slipped effortlessly into the role following his £5.5m move.[LNB]Distin impressed on his debut in the 2-1 win over Wigan and has followed that up by scoring his first goal for the Blues - against AEK Athens - and helping keep three clean sheets.[LNB]But it is the way he has marshalled Everton's defence that has struck a chord with Moyes and now his manager is looking for Distin to play a part in another shutout at Fratton Park.[LNB]'We have been pleased with Sylvain,' said Moyes. 'It has been a good move for us and for him. It's never easy to move to a new club, but he plays like he has been here for two years.[LNB]'He'll probably find things slightly different here at Everton, but I hope he will think it's a good move for him at this stage of his career.[LNB]'He has the experience in the Premier League to be able to go straight into the team. He understands what is required in the Premier League.[LNB]'With new players, such as John Heitinga and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, you are never quite sure what they will be like.[LNB]'But because Sylvain has the experience, as a manager you feel more secure putting him in. Sylvain will have come here and seen a settled side and a settled club.[LNB]'Prior to this season, Portsmouth have been relatively settled and it's only in the last six months there has been upheaval.'[LNB]During his spell on the south coast, Distin helped Pompey win the FA Cup but since that day at Wembley, there has been a dramatic change in their fortunes.[LNB]They go into the lunchtime fixture having lost all six of their Premier League fixtures and Distin is unsure what kind of reception he will receive.
