TONY HIBBERT believes the competition for the right-back spot at Everton FC is as intense as any position in the first team.

Having started the season on the bench, Hibbert has fought his way back into the fold and has started the last five Premier League games.

The 30-year-old has deposed captain Phil Neville, who has had to be content with either a place on the bench or as a defensive midfielder.

And with Seamus Coleman and Phil Jagielka also capable of slotting in on the right of defence, Hibbert is aware he faces a battle to retain his starting role.

“We’ve got Nev, Seamus, and probably even Jags who can have a go there so the manager has got the options there and if he wants to change it he can,” said the full-back.

“Ideally you want that competition in every position but realistically you can’t. What we do have is all the lads pushing each other and it’s good.

“I’m going to push and give it 100% to stay in the team, that’s what you’ve got to aim for in training and in games.

“I’ve done all right and I’m enjoying it. I would like us to have got a few more points, because I like winning no matter what.

“I would rather us get the three points than me have a worldy of a game.”

Hibbert admits Everton’s defence will have to be on their guard at Fulham on Sunday when they come up against former Goodison striker Andrew Johnson.