Roberto Martinez hails Gareth Barry versatility

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has hailed the versatility of Gareth Barry as the veteran played in defence for the majority of his side's 0-0 draw with Swansea City.

The 33-year-old was called upon to fulfil the centre-back role alongside Phil Jagielka after Antolin Alcaraz left the match with an injury, and he was forced to play in the position for 60 minutes.

The Toffees were solid at the back and earned their third clean sheet in the Premier League this season, and Martinez feels that Barry didn't miss a beat in his display, despite playing out of his comfort zone.

He told the club's official website: "I thought he was so natural with it. Gareth keeps giving footballing lessons every time he is on a pitch.

"For someone to be able to play out of position, albeit a position he knows well, as quick as he did - he was pristine throughout the game.

"It was a pleasing performance from Gareth but nothing different to normal."

Everton are ninth in the Premier League after 10 matches this season.