Everton FC

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• Manager:David Moyes

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Baines earns Moyes backing

07 Jan 2009 - 13:53:00

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Everton left-back Leighton Baines has been praised by boss David Moyes for continuing to battle for a regular starting spot at Goodison Park.

The 24-year-old former Wigan Athletic defender has made only 27 starts for the Toffees since his arrival in the summer of 2007, but Moyes still believes that Baines is a valuable member of his squad.

He told the club's official website: "Leighton has done well in the games he has played. He's doing fine.

"There is a good player in there and we know that, but the competition is stiff.

"That's what happens when you come to big clubs - the competition will always be tough. We have that at the back with Joleon Lescott, Phil Jagielka and Joseph Yobo.

"I don't think he accepts the situation and nor do I want him to accept it. He wants to play, which is good.

"But, in the same breath, Joleon probably became as good a left-back as there was in the country last year.

"We didn't buy him to make him a left-back. We just found him playing there because of what happened with injuries and suspensions.

"Joleon has ended up developing and been capped for England due to his form at left-back. That is where the competition has come from."