David Weir, Glasgow Rangers, Footballer
DAVID WEIR is keeping himself in top condition – in case Everton FC need his rock-steady presence to bolster their defence next season.
The 42-year-old is loving being back in pre-season mode with the Toffees, and admits that he is not quite ready to hang up his boots permanently.
Everton suffered a defensive crisis in January when they lost both Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka to injury, and had to promote untried Republic of Ireland U21s rookie Shane Duffy into the first team fold.
Weir arrived for his second spell at Goodison the following month, and although he is aiming at a career in coaching, the veteran aided Alan Stubbs’ reserve side to a strong finish by featuring in the heart of the defence – and is still considering playing on next term.
Get Involved: Will any Everton players make your Fantasy Football team line-up? Click here to join and compete for a share of £100,000
Now the former Rangers defender – who made 269 apperances for Everton in his first spell at the club – is determined to use this pre-season to stay match fit, while he also learns the ropes from Everton’s coaching staff.
“I’m loving it,” he said.
“I’m still training now and again and doing a bit of coaching as well, so I’ve got a foot in both camps, but I’m just enjoying watching, learning and getting involved.
“I’m getting a taste of what a pre-season is like at Everton after being away for a while.
“I’m really enjoying that and working with Stubbsy and Taff (Andy Holden) – the whole experience has been really good and I’m enjoying every day.”
Weir is part of the travelling party for the friendly fixtures against Dundee United and Motherwell this week – and he believes both will offer challenging work-outs for Moyes’ men.
“They will be competitive games in Scotland, as they always are,” said the centre-back who has also played for Falkirk, Hearts and Scotland.
“You are guaranteed to get a game of football in regards to effort and will, so we know we’ll have to be ready for that and have to match that.
“Dundee United had a good season last year.
Five Filters recommends: Incinerating Assange – The Liberal Media Go To Work.
Sign up to the newsletter and win tickets to the premiership game of your choice in our monthly draw. Compare discounts in the club shop or read latest reviews of baby Everton kit.