Everton manager Martinez urges Baines to stay

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has told reporters that Leighton Baines should reject the advances of Manchester United manager David Moyes, who wants to bring the left back to Old Trafford. Martinez has labelled Baines as "an icon of the club".

The outstanding defender is a fan favourite at Goodison Park, and would arguably be a regular first team player for the England national team had Ashley Cole not been entrusted with the position in recent years. For many, Cole is the best left back in the world, leaving Baines regularly struggling to oust the Chelsea man in England's starting lineup.


One of David Moyes' first moves as manager of Man Utd was to contact Everton regarding the future of Baines, as he seeks to to bring in a new left back. It is understood that United are listening to offers from Monaco for current full back Patrice Evra.


Nevertheless, Roberto Martinez is hopeful that Baines will stay at Goodison Park as he is an "icon" to the club's fans.


"I think Leighton is more than a player, he is an icon," Martinez said. "He represents a lot about our football club and I am really, really excited about working with him. He is the best left-back in the country. He is a phenomenal performer and has become a very consistent player for Everton.


"This is a big season for him and for us as a club. When you are the left-back of this football club, and the level that he has been reaching over the last few years consistently, it shows me that he is the best left-back in the country. I can't wait to start working with him."