• Premier League

Baines signs long-term Everton deal

ESPN staff
January 27, 2014
Leighton Baines will not be leaving Everton for Manchester United © PA Photos
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Everton left-back Leighton Baines has signed a new four-year contract with the club.

Baines, 29, who had 17 months remaining on his previous deal, has been linked with a move to Manchester United for some time.

However, Baines has now committed himself to Everton, with the club announcing the news on their official Twitter account on Monday morning.

Everton rejected a number of bids for the defender during the summer from United, which all came after manager David Moyes ended his 11-year stay at Goodison Park to take charge at Old Trafford.

Martinez, though, repeatedly stressed since arriving at the club in June that he was determined to keep hold of the player.

He told his news conference ahead of the Merseyside derby: "It would be an understatement to say we are delighted to secure the best footballing years of Leighton Baines at our club.

"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 has gone on to become one of the most consistent players in the Premier League. He has won 22 England caps, making his international debut in 2010 and looks to have recently dislodged Ashley Cole in Roy Hodgson's first XI.

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