Everton Football Club News

• Nickname:Toffees
• Founded:1878
• Manager:David Moyes

• Ground:Goodison Park
• Capacity:42,440

Baines backs Lescott to stay

19 Jul 2009 - 17:45:24

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Everton defender Leighton Baines does not think Joleon Lescott will move to Manchester City before the transfer window closes is six weeks' time.

The England international was the subject of a £15million offer from City last week but the Toffees rejected the bid.

Mark Hughes has been linked with both Lescott and Chelsea's John Terry this summer as he tries to bolster his defensive options, but Baines has backed his team-mate to still be at Goodison Park when the new season starts.

"Absolutely we want Joleon to stay. I don't think anyone would want a player like Joleon to leave," Baines told the club's official website.

"The manager had said that and it's good to see the fans showing their appreciation for him as well because he's done so well for the club over the last few years.

"He showed with his performance against Rochdale that his mind isn't elsewhere and he's fully focused on what he's doing here at Everton at the moment. That's great."