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Johnson: Going nowhere

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Everton boss David Moyes has dismissed reports linking Andy Johnson with a move away from Goodison Park, insisting the striker is not for sale.

Johnson's future has been the subject of conjecture in recent weeks with reports suggesting Everton were reluctantly willing to cash-in on the England squad member in a bid to raise funds.

The likes of Sunderland, West Ham, Wigan and Manchester City have been linked with the former Crystal Palace hit-man, but Moyes claims the player is going nowhere.

"Andy Johnson is not for sale - it is that simple," Moyes told the club's official website.

"He is a highly-valued member of my senior squad and I look forward to seeing him when the players report back for pre-season training."

Extension

Johnson enjoyed a superb first season on Merseyside following his move from Crystal Palace two years ago and was an integral part of Everton's quest to reach the Uefa Cup.

The 27-year-old was still the subject of transfer speculation and that has only intensified this summer even though he has signed a five-year contract extension.

Johnson himself has rejected talk of a departure, insisting the speculation was "a load of rubbish".

Nevertheless, Moyes has felt it necessary to speak out to try to dampen the rumour mill around Johnson, who is expected back at Everton's Finch Farm training ground next week along with most of his team-mates.

Bond

Toffees midfielder Steven Pienaar was delighted to learn that Johnson would still be spearheading the Everton attack next season.

Pienaar told Sky Sports News: "We all know AJ is a good player, he's a quality player and a team player.

"If we were to lose him that would be another hole in the team, so I think it is really good news for us.

"The longer the players play together the better the team gets and the bond between the players will be even bigger.