While football's industry obsesses with youth, Everton have tightened up this season due to four battle-hardened stalwarts, all in their 30s.
Captain Phil Jagielka, 34, and his centre-half partner Ashley Williams, 32, have Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg, 34, behind them and 35-year-old midfield holder Gareth Barry in front as insurance.
Only Tottenham have conceded fewer than their eight goals in nine matches under new boss Ronald Koeman, a far cry from last season under Roberto Martinez, when only the bottom five let in more.
As someone who loves heading and tackling, Jagielka has welcomed the shift in emphasis ahead of Sunday's home game with West Ham.