Heitinga is excelling, says Neville

Michael Kenrick , 3 May, 18comments | Jump to most recent

Phil Neville says that competition for places in Everton's defence has brought out the best in John Heitinga who is among the leading candidates for player of the season.

The Ducth international has been impressive at centre-back this season despite competition from Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka — though all three have played in the last two matches because of Leighton Baines' injury, with the Frenchman deputising at left-back — but Neville believes the added competition has helped Heitinga.

"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," the Toffees captain told Everton's website.

"We have got competition for places and I think that is why we have got the level of performance that Johnny is producing.

"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."

Quotes or other material sourced from TeamTalk

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