[3] Born in Bagnolet, Distin started his career at French non-league side Joué-lès-Tours before moving to Tours a year later, where he played 26 times and scored three goals.

His performances for Gueugnon prompted Paris Saint-Germain to sign him, though his time at PSG was short-lived and after a year, Distin went on loan to Newcastle United where he made 35 appearances in all competitions.

[6] Distin was appointed vice captain by Harry Redknapp and led Portsmouth in Sol Campbell's absences due to injury.

On 14 April 2012, he made a rare mistake in the FA Cup semi-final when a poor back pass gifted Luis Suárez the equalising goal for Merseyside rivals Liverpool.

[15] Distin's centre back partnership with Phil Jagielka remained Everton's first choice through the 2013–14 season, despite the emergence of John Stones, with the club finishing fifth with their record Premier League points tally of 72.

[18] In June 2015, after being released by Everton at the end of the 2014–15 season, Distin agreed in principle, a free transfer to newly promoted AFC Bournemouth,[19] signing on 1 July.

[21] In 2003 Distin represented the L'équipe de l'amitié in a posthumous testimonial game for his former Manchester City teammate, Marc-Vivien Foé, versus the Cameroon national football team.

Distin was approached to play in the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup by the Guadeloupean federation, but he rejected the advances as he didn't feel it would be beneficial for his pre-season routine with Everton.

[23] In March 2013, Distin made his 402nd English Premier League appearance, the most of any foreign outfield player, but he never received any international call-ups.