Everton's John Heitinga has admitted that he is "enjoying" playing alongside Phil Jagielka in the heart of the club's defence.

The Dutch international, who has been used in numerous positions since his 2009 arrival at Goodison Park, has taken the place of the injured Sylvain Distin in recent weeks.

"I am enjoying [playing in defence]," he told the club's official website. "I think the combination between me and Jags is good and I am happy to play in that position.

"I play where the manager wants me to play and for me this is the best position in the team."

The Toffees paid Atletico Madrid a reported £6.2m fee to sign Heitinga.