NOD,
Really?
As JW said had he been drinking? Qualified on the 744? Licence and documentation with him? Familiar with company SOPs? Are you aware of the individuals training history?
Could he be a Walter Mitty?
Way too many variables to make it a no-brainer I'd think.
Personally, unless the situation was incredibly dire, I'd go with company rated, sober and current given the choice.