PLAYER PROFILE

Joseph Yobo

Position: Defence

Height: 6'2

Weight: 12st 9lbs

Date of Birth: 1980-09-06 Kono, Nigeria

Joseph Yobo

Born in Kono, Joseph Yobo caught the eye of David Moyes at the 2002 World Cup when he impressed against Michael Owen in the group game between England and Nigeria.

He joined Everton for £1million during that summer in a year-long loan deal, however, his contribution was so great that David Moyes made moves to secure his services permanently six months ahead of schedule.

Primarily a defender, though he can also play in midfield, Yobo started his career at Standard Liege before a move to French First Division side Marseille in 2001 where he made 22 appearances. He also had a loan spell at Tenerife in La Liga.

After the World Cup, several major European clubs were also chasing the African's signature including Serie A side Juventus, who had hoped to tie up a deal until Everton snapped him up.

Injuries did affect the rest of his 2002/03 season, but Moyes was still happy to finally tie up a permanent deal in the summer of 2003. Great things are expected from Yobo in years to come at Goodison Park.

He was an important member of the squad during the following season, despite a month's absense while he represented Nigeria in the African Nations Cup.

The 2004/05 campaign saw him play consistantly for the Toffees as they crept into the 4th Champions League spot. Although he did not feature for Nigeria, he made 33 appearances for Everton and despite rumours linking him with a move abroad, he stayed at the club and was a key figure again in both the 2005/06 and 2006/07 seasons.

He continued this form until 2008/09, when he began to find his first team opportunities dwindle. He is, however, a valuable utility man for the Toffees and is always a strong performers when called upon.