Nev: John's Love The Key

Skipper says Blues benefitting from Dutchman's Everton passion.

Phil Neville says Everton are reaping the rewards of John Heitinga’s love for the Club.

The Dutchman arrived from Atletico Madrid in 2009 and has become a key part of the Blues’ squad.

This season he has been outstanding at the heart of the defence and emerged as one of the contenders for the player of the season award.

And the Everton fans’ love for the hard-tackling Heitinga is reciprocated. He regularly tweets to his 133,000 followers using hashtags like #proudtobeblue #ifyouknowyourhistory and the ubiquitous #COYB.

“He loves playing for Everton Football Club and as someone who plays at the top level for Holland, that is fantastic,” declared captain Neville.

“It does take players a while to settle in. I think we have three unbelievable centre-backs that would walk into any other team in the Premier League.”

Heitinga has appeared in midfield and at right-back for Everton during his three seasons at Goodison but it is as a centre-half where he is currently excelling.

And Neville is in agreement that the 28-year-old is currently at the height of his powers.

“We have got competition for places and I think that is why we have got the level of performance that Johnny is producing,” said the veteran.

“I think the thing is he is playing in his best position. He played in midfield and he always said playing at centre-back is his best position.

“He has been unbelievable, using his experience and composure on the ball. I think it has been his best form since he came to the Club.”