Everton defender Sylvain Distin believes that second-choice goalkeeper Joel Robles is more than capable of filling in for the suspended Tim Howard.

Howard saw red after bringing down Sunderland's Ki Sung-Yueng in the Toffees' Boxing Day 1-0 defeat and is suspended for Sunday's clash against Southampton.

Distin has backed Joel to shine in Howard's absence, claiming that the shot-stopper has proved he is worthy of the first team.

"We have to feel comfortable with Joel behind us," Distin told the Liverpool Echo.

"He's proved he can handle it, and anyway there is no point stressing because one player or another isn't there. We're not a one-man team.

"Joel did well when he came on in the second half. Like Bryan Oviedo he can take his chance now."

Everton currently sit in fifth place in the Premier League table.