Distin: I´m better than ever

Portsmouth defender Sylvain Distin believes that he is playing better than ever as he helped his club to an FA Cup Final and to a top ten spot in the Premiership.

He said: 'I've settled down pretty quickly with the team. The changing room has a great atmosphere, the players have helped a lot and the staff also.

'I have felt good on the pitch. I feel I'm getting old because in the morning I am feeling a bit stiff but apart from that I feel fine. I've missed two games, so physically I have managed to keep fit.

'Performance wise, this has been my best season.

'I actually think I am more consistent. I have had maybe one or two difficult games but altogether I think I have been more consistent than in the past.

'I used to lose my concentration once or twice sometimes and make a big mistake – then I would have two or three good games. At the moment I think I'm a bit more focused.

'I'm 30 now so I'm also bit more mature. I've got a bit more experience and that helps.

'I am at the point in my career when I'm not waiting for anything. I'm not playing for any top-four club so I don't have the pressure like you feel you have to succeed.

'For me, consistency is the main thing and that has helped me do more here in one season than I did in five with Manchester City.'