Fellaini set to escape punishment

Everton are unlikely to punish Marouane Fellaini for comments he made suggesting that he wanted to leave Goodison Park next year.



Fellaini, 24, was quoted in Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad as saying: "I am just starting my fifth season at Everton; this will be one of my last. I have seen everything. In January, or at the end of the season, I will turn to another club or championship.''



Everton officials are believed to have expressed disappointment at the midfielder's remarks and said there had been no previous indication that he was looking to move. He signed a new five-year deal at Goodison Park in November.



The Belgium international midfielder, who scored the winner against Manchester United in Everton's first game of the season, is thought likely to have to explain the comments to manager David Moyes, but will not be fined.



Although he did not deny having made the remarks reported in Het Nieuwsblad, he wrote on his Facebook page: "I was very surprised to read in some newspapers that I will leave Everton very soon and perhaps next January.



"Let me remind you that I am very happy in Liverpool and our start of the championship was good. Kevin Mirallas and some other good players joined us to make a better squad.



"So with Everton, I am ready to play all the season and to reach our goals of this season.'"



Fellaini joined Everton in a £15 million move from Standard Liege in 2008, and has scored 22 goals in 130 appearances.