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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Tom Blow

Donny van de Beek surprised by Everton fans as he discusses transfer from Man Utd

Everton midfielder Donny van de Beek has admitted he was surprised by the "special" reaction he received from Everton fans when he Joined the club in January.

The Dutchman, 24, completed a season-long loan move to Goodison Park but is expected to continue his Manchester United career next season.

Van de Beek endured a difficult first 18 months at Old Trafford, making just four Premier League starts under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and current manager Ralf Rangnick.

He's made a good start to his Everton career, though, picking up the Man of the Match award after the 3-0 home win against relegation rivals Leeds earlier this month.

Van de Beek is hoping to enjoy a solid end to the season, as he looks to win a spot in the Netherlands squad for the World Cup in Qatar and keep Everton up.

Will Donny van de Beek succeed on his return to Manchester United? Let us know in the comments below!

Donny van de Beek has made a solid start to his Everton career under new manager Frank Lampard (Everton FC via Getty Images)

"That was so special, I didn’t expect it," Van de Beek told the club's website when asked about his Goodison Park reception.

"I always try my best and it feels good when you know the supporters are behind you. Their passion is amazing and it was important to win [vs Leeds] for them and for the team.

"I have followed the club since Ronald Koeman was manager. I know a lot about Everton and the big fanbase and the expectation and I will give everything for this huge club.

"For my motivation every day, I remember where I started. I always think about this – and always believe there is another way to go up again.

"I believe in my qualities and know what I can do. I have all the time to do it again and it is up to me to show it."

Everton's next game is against leaders and champions Manchester City, who've won 20 of their 26 Premier League fixtures this season.

The Toffees haven't beaten Pep Guardiola's side since their famous 4-0 victory at Goodison Park in January 2017 and sit just two points above the relegation zone.

Man City have won nine consecutive games in all competitions against Everton.

Van de Beek struggled during his first 18 months at Manchester United (Getty Images)

On his struggles at United, Van de Beek added: "It was difficult when we came to England.

"There were no fans in the stadiums, our family couldn’t visit us, everything was closed, so we couldn’t go out.

"We were at home together every day. And I didn’t play so many games, so it was a difficult time. But we helped each other and tried to stay positive – and we came out of it."

Van de Beek is even more motivated to play in this year's World Cup after missing Euro 2020 through injury last summer.

"The injury was too painful to play in the Euros," claimed the midfielder.

"I recovered and increased my time in the gym, working on my strength and fitness, to prepare well for the season. It was an opportunity to improve myself."

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