Donny van de Beek reveals what John Heitinga told him before joining Everton
Donny van de Beek has revealed that fellow countryman John Heitinga said positive words about Everton before he joined the club.
The Dutch midfielder joined on the transfer deadline day on Monday from Manchester United on a loan deal.
He became the first signing under Frank Lampard. The Toffees also signed Dele Alli from Tottenham Hotspur.
Van de Beek revealed that he reached out to Heitinga when the opportunity to join Everton presented itself.
“We have had contact and, before I signed here, I spoke with him about the Club and he was really positive. He enjoyed his time here,” said Van de Beek to Everton Tv.
“He said the fans are really emotional and they always stay behind the team. He enjoyed it here…the stadium, the atmosphere. He loved it.”
Smart signing
Van de Beek was targeted by Everton during the summer transfer window but the deal didn’t materialise at that time.
The Dutch midfielder was part of an exceptional Ajax side before joining United in 2020.
The 24-year-old has been wasted on the bench at Old Trafford as he failed to get into the first team. He impressed in whatever little opportunities he got.
Lampard was left with few options in the transfer market and he went after players who were readily available.
Bolstering the midfield was necessary following injuries to Abdoulaye Doucoure and Tom Davies.
The Dutch midfielder is cup-tied for Saturday’s home FA Cup match against Brentford.
However, he would be available to make his Everton debut in the Premier League clash against Newcastle three days later.
Van de Beek could make his home debut as an Everton player when the Toffees will face Leeds United on 12 February.
In other Everton news, Lampard wants to bring in a legendary ex-teammate to be part of his staff.