Newcastle’s Vurnon Anita ready to deputise at right-back at Everton

Vurnon Anita insists he is ready to come to Alan Pardew’s rescue and play at right-back for Newcastle United’s trip to Everton on Monday.

The 23-year-old midfielder made his debut in the Magpies’ 2-0 defeat by Chelsea after completing a £6.7m move from Ajax to Newcastle in August.

Danny Simpson is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, while James Perch is a doubt for the Toffees tie, meaning the versatile Anita could be asked to deputise at right-back for the duo.

“We’ve got two injuries on that side so if the manager needs me on that side I’ll do my best for the team,” Anita told Newcastle’s website.

“It went well against Aston Villa. As a right-back you can come forward a lot, so I did that also and yes, I think it was a good performance.

“Central midfield is my position so the main focus is on the midfield – but if the manager needs me on the right side I can also play there.”

Anita is familiar with some of Everton’s stars having played alongside Steven Pienaar and Jonny Heitinga at Ajax, and the Netherlands international is expecting a tough test at Goodison Park.

“I know two players that play there. I played with Steven Pienaar at Ajax – he was there when I made my debut – and Johnny Heitinga, also from Ajax and the national team,” he added.

“They are very good players so I know they have a good team and a very strong team.

“It’s a good opponent to play against and we’re playing away so we must be prepared.”

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