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Heitinga can get stuck in
EVERTON’S £6million new boy John Heitinga is ready to tackle hard again following a frustrating season with Atletico Madrid.
Dutchman Heitinga, 25, generally recognised as a defender but used in a holding midfield role at times in a career that has also seen him serve Ajax and his country, is relishing the prospect of playing in England. He feels it will suit his natural game as a player who likes to get stuck in.
Heitinga, above, received nine yellow cards and one red – and he admits he deserved that one for bringing down Lionel Messi in a cup game against Barcelona. He expects referees to accept his physical approach more, hopefully starting at Fulham tomorrow.
“A lot of people have asked me why I turned my back on the Champions League to come here,” he said.
“It was a hard decision to make because I cannot play in the Europa League for Everton until January.
“But the type of game I play suits me better here in England.
“I’m a defender and as such I want to make tackles.
“Every tackle you make in Spain brings you the risk of getting a yellow card.”