Everton defender Joseph Yobo has slammed reports he wants to leave Goodison Park as "ridiculous".

After initially signing on loan in July 2002, the 23-year-old made his move permanent 12 months later and, after cementing his place in the heart of central defence, he has become a firm fans favourite.

He told the club's official website: "I'm very upset with what has been said. I haven't spoken to anybody lately. I'm just concentrating on being here, I'm happy here. I've signed for Everton.

"I've always said I'm happy here. I've never talked about any other clubs. I'm very upset at the moment because I don't know where this is coming from.

"At the moment I've got a contract with Everton and I'm happy here. This is just ridiculous. Are people trying to get at me? I don't know, I don't know where the stories are coming from."