Everton's Sylvain Distin put club before country by turning down the chance to play in the Gold Cup.
Centre-back turned down Guadeloupe to prolong Everton career
Everton defender Sylvain Distin put club before country this summer by turning down the chance to play in the Concacaf Gold Cup.
The 33-year-old centre-back was approached by representatives from the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe - his father's birthplace - asking him to play in the tournament in the United States.
However, although the French-born defender was tempted by the idea, he was concerned how it may impact on life at club level.
"It was tough. I am 33 now so it made it a difficult choice," Distin told
evertontv.
Sensible
"My dad is from Guadeloupe and they asked me to play in the Gold Cup.
"That would have meant I'd have had a week, been away for another three and then maybe another two off if the gaffer was kind to me - that was not enough.
"I played every game last season and I thought it better to think about the club rather than going to the Gold Cup.
"It may not be a big nation but it was an interesting offer and it is part of my roots and important to me.
"I was proud that they asked me but I would have been too tired. It was too big a gamble and I decided to be sensible and stay home and get some rest."
