Jamie Redknapp has expressed his belief that Everton defender John Stones's performance against West Bromwich Albion will cement his place in Roberto Martinez's starting lineup.
The 20-year-old had played just once for the Toffees this season prior to replacing the injured Sylvain Distin alongside Phil Jagielka against the Baggies, and guided his team to their first clean sheet of the campaign.
Redknapp wrote in the Daily Mail: "Injury might have ruled out Sylvain Distin for Everton's 2-0 win at West Brom, but he could find it hard to get himself back in the team.
"He and Phil Jagileka have been stalwarts for Everton, but the team had conceded 10 goals in three games. With John Stones coming in at centre back, they kept a clean sheet.
"The young man can play right back at a pinch but his long-term future is in the middle. He is comfortable in possession, has great recovery speed and now has a big season ahead of him. It could be time for a changing of the guard."
Everton are 10th in the Premier League after picking up their first win of the season at The Hawthorns on Saturday.
Simon Sinclair
