Everton FC’s John Heitinga desperate to win fitness battle to face Portsmouth at Goodison

06 May 2010 07:00
Johnny Heitinga 300[LNB]JOHN HEITINGA is desperate to win his fitness battle to play a part in Everton's final game of the season against Portsmouth at Goodison on Sunday.[LNB]The Dutch utility man has missed the last three matches after suffering a hairline fracture on his ankle in last month's 2-2 draw at Aston Villa.[LNB]Heitinga has proved a major hit following his £6million move from Atletico Madrid last summer and wants to help ensure the Blues finish their campaign on a high in front of a 40,000 sell-out crowd.[LNB]'I wasn't happy when I was told I had to rest my injury because I want to play,' he said.[LNB]'I am hoping I can return for Sunday's game so we will have to see before the game.[LNB]'It's been a good season for me. It is a very different league here but I think it is perfect for us and the way we play.[LNB]'We all love playing for Everton and we enjoy it here at the club.[LNB]'I will be at Goodison for the final game to thank the fans. I hope I am on the pitch and not watching from the stands.'[LNB]Meanwhile, Marouane Fellaini has given Everton a boost by declaring he hopes to be back in action before the start of next season.[LNB]The Belgian midfielder has been sidelined since he suffered an ankle injury in the Merseyside derby in February.[LNB]After undergoing surgery it was feared Fellaini would need around seven months to recover but the 22-year-old is on course for an early return.[LNB]'I am feeling much better now,' he said.[LNB]'The first month and second month were difficult for me but now it is better.[LNB]'I should be back running in the next month then I should be able to do ball work. I hope that by July I will be back playing with the team.[LNB]'I am hoping I will be back in time for pre-season. We thought it may be September when I return but I really hope I can start the league with the rest of the team in August.'

Source: Liverpool_Echo