JOHN HEITINGA has denied reports he is seeking an exit from Everton this summer.

The versatile Dutchman has been in and out of the Toffees’ side this season, making 25 starts and five substitute appearances.

The form of Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin in the centre of defence has led to him often being used in a less familiar central midfield role.

And reports in his homeland had suggested that the 27-year-old was looking for a move away from Goodison Park, with free spending Manchester City said to be his preferred destination.

Indeed the Dutch newspaper de Telegraaf quoted him as saying: “Manchester City have ambitions, and I am always looking to move to a bigger club.”

However Heitinga, a World Cup finalist with the Netherlands last summer, says he intends to honour his contract at Everton, which expires in 2014, and revealed he hopes to help David Moyes’ side qualify for Europe next season.

“I feel good over here,” said the former Ajax man.

“I have another three years on my contract, the fans are good with me, the manager’s good with me, the play is good and I’m happy here at Everton.

“I’m looking forward to next season and hopefully we can get back into Europe.

“I miss playing in Europe because that’s the highest level you can play in as a player but hopefully we can reach that with Everton next season.

“For me the Premier League is the best league in the world because I’ve played in the Spanish league as well.

“There are so many good players in the Premier League it’s hard to win games here so you have to fight for it. That’s why this league is the top level after international football.”