Advertisement
Everton's Leighton Baines. Nigel French/EMPICS Sport
Pen to Paper

Hands off Moyes - Leighton Baines signs new four-year deal with Everton

The 29 year-old has committed his long-term future to the Goodison Park club.

LEIGHTON BAINES HAS committed his long-term future to Everton by signing a new four-year contract.

The deal sees the England defender extend his tenure with the club after having had 17 months remaining on his previous deal.

Baines decision to sign a new contract comes after intense speculation last summer that he was about to follow former manager David Moyes to Old Trafford and sign for Manchester United.

But his decision is a major boost for Everton, who face Liverpool in tomorrow night’s Merseyside derby, according to manager Roberto Martinez.

“It would be an understatement to say we are delighted to secure the best footballing years of Leighton Baines at our club,” Martinez told Everton’s official website.

“It’s a massive boost and exciting for the future. Leighton has just turned 29 and brings the right measure of maturity and football knowledge in a very specialised position on the pitch, bringing an infectious and positive influence to the rest of the squad.

“I know that every fan will be delighted with the news and we all share that excitement looking at what’s left of this campaign and beyond. With the crucial games we have ahead, it is going to be vitally important to have Leighton’s experience there to help us fight for our aims.”

Baines joined Everton from Wigan Athletic in July 2007 and his career has blossomed since that move. The 29-year-old has already made over 260 appearances for Everton as well as scoring 25 goals for the club.

At international level Baines has won 22 caps for England and is set to be part of the squad that partakes in the World Cup in Brazil this summer.

Scouting Report: How are the Irish contingent in Everton’s squad viewed on Merseyside?

Premier League top four all drawn together in FA Cup fifth round

Your Voice
Readers Comments
13
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.