Everton’s Dutch midfielder Andy van der Meyde has denied suggestions he has a major Alcohol problem and has voiced his desire to stay at the Premiership side next season.

The 26-year-old former Dutch international who, since Marco van Basten took over the role as the Netherlands head coach hasn’t been called-up to join the Oranje squad, missed much of last season, his first in the Barclays Premiership, due to injury.

Van der Meyde said being injured was a frustrating time and that he did drink sometimes as he “wanted to forget things”, but he stressed that he did not develop an alcohol addiction.

“I’ve heard what people have said about me,” van der Meyde told the Everton website.

“I’ve heard people say that I drink a lot and that I have been going out all the time. But we are all human and we all have problems. When I was out injured things were just so difficult.

“I was frustrated with everything and I wanted to forget things. But I am not an alcoholic.”

Van der Meyde was quoted in Gazzetta dello Sport earlier this month as saying: “I regret leaving Italian football and I would love to come back.”

However, speaking to Everton's official website, the former Ajax and Inter Milan star said that leaving Goodison Park was the last thing on his mind.

“I want to stay. I am desperate to stay,” said Van der Meyde. “I love it here. Everything suits my game. Why would I want to go back to Italy? I’m happy in England and I want to show everyone that I can really play football. If I get the chance next season, I will do it.”

Van der Meyde, who joined The Toffees for £2m, made just seven starts in the Barclays Premiership last season and is eager to prove to manager David Moyes that he can play a major role in the coming season.

Everton have bought in England striker Andrew Johnson from Crystal Palace and defender Joleon Lescott to strengthen their squad, and Van der Meyde believes he too can find a place in the team next season.

“The gaffer has been great and I just want to do what I enjoy most now and that is play football, “ he said.

“I want to do it for Everton.”

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