Everton manager David Moyes has praised John Heitinga for the way he has responded to criticism from fans.

The Dutchman has come in for some harsh comments from supporters for a series of performances this season, but Moyes insists that the defender is strong enough to not let the derision affect his form at the club.

"John has that Dutch mentality running right through him," Moyes told the Liverpool Echo.

"He's been at top level clubs so he's always had that self-confidence and that he would be back to put it right.

"If it was anyone else, it would have broken them. John is mentally very strong. He has played at World Cup finals against all the top players and takes it all in his stride."

Heitinga signed for Everton from Atletico Madrid in 2009.

Written by
Paul Gorst