Fans of Everton have been reacting to a Twitter post from Patrick Boyland after an interview with former Toffees man John Heitinga.
On Monday, The Athletic’s Boyland posted an article of an interview with the Dutchman who said there was an “immediate connection” when he joined the Toffees and that he has “followed all the scores since” he left (per Patrick Boyland), which had some fans gushing.
Heitinga exclusive – “There was an immediate connection. Every match was like a final. I played many games with injections. Others did too. I’ve followed all the scores since I left. #EFC is my team. It’s true what they say: ‘Once a blue, always a blue’.”https://t.co/VVYgra1cDi
— Patrick Boyland (@Paddy_Boyland) February 17, 2020
He’s proof that you don’t need to be 6’5 to be a class centre back. Great reader of the game.
— Matthew Barry (@EFCMatt1) February 17, 2020
One of my favourite players growing up. Some great memories of Johnny
— Stephen Andrew Hornby (@andrewshornby) February 17, 2020
Love this. I think we don’t hold affiliations with enough former players, who seem to hold us in high regard.
— We Love You Everton (@you_everton) February 17, 2020
@Johnheitinga forever a blue ?
— Carlo’s L4 Azurri (@Dignesontoast) February 17, 2020
Would you take a prime John Heitinga back at Goodison Park?Yes, he was a solid playerNo, wasn't good enough |
Now Ajax’s Under-19s manager, Heitinga spent four and a half seasons on Merseyside between 2009 and 2014, arriving from Atletico Madrid and departing for Fulham (per Transfermarkt).
While some supporters were keen to gush over their former man, despite making 140 appearances in Everton blue (per Transfermarkt), other fans were less than complimentary of the 36-year-old.
Can’t believe he thinks that … very short memory
— Edwin Lowrey (@eddielowrey0533) February 17, 2020
MEH
— ste (@sterushton) February 17, 2020
What do we think?
Having claimed nine pieces of silverware during his career, all during his time with Ajax (per Transfermarkt), it is clear that Heitinga was a player of talent.
While some fans were still not convinced by the Dutchman, his record at Everton should not be frowned upon, especially considering he holds the club in high regard (per The Athletic).