Jon Obi Mikel has suggested that rumours of Everton being interested in him are 'false and untrue', declaring himself happy with life at Chinese Super League side Tianjin Teda.
The ex-Chelsea ace has spent close to a year in the Far East after bringing the curtain down on his decade-long association with the Blues.
Following an injury-hit first season with Tianjin, speculation emerged of a possible Premier League return in the January transfer window, with Everton looking to snap him up.
Mikel insists that these claims are wide of the mark, however, telling Tianjin TV: "I don't know from where such a rumour could come, but this story is untrue.
"I want to stay in the CSL and play for Teda. I'm sure there will be lots of speculation about me as the transfer window nears but it is a false rumour.
"The CSL lags behind the Premier League, but their level is still quite high. I believe more matches will help me get in shape for the 2018 World Cup. I just hope to stay injury free next year and have an amazing season with Teda."
Nigeria international Mikel has featured just 13 times for Tianjin since joining 11 months ago.
Daniel Lewis
