Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™

LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE

Baines commits to Everton with four-year deal

The England international had 17 months left on his contract at Goodison Park and despite reports that he was wanted by former manager David Moyes at Manchester United, the 29-year-old left back has chosen to remain at Goodison Park.

"It would be an understatement to say we are delighted to secure the best footballing years of Leighton Baines at our club," manager Roberto Martinez told the club's official website (www.evertonfc.com).

"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."

Baines joined Everton from Wigan in 2007 and has developed into one of the club's most reliable players, making more than 260 appearances.

He is also a key member of Roy Hodgson's England side and is competing with veteran Chelsea full back Ashley Cole for a starting spot ahead of the World Cup in Brazil in June.

"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," Martinez added.

"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."

Everton have made a promising start under Martinez since the Spaniard replaced Moyes at the start of the season with the side sitting sixth in the Premier League, just a point behind Merseyside neighbours Liverpool, who occupy fourth place.

The Merseysiders are also through to the fifth round of the FA Cup in which they have been drawn at home to Swansea City.

(Reporting by Josh Reich; Editing by John O'Brien)


2 min read

Published

Updated

Source: Reuters


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Watch now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world