Wigan Athletic Football Club News

• Nickname:Latics
• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25,000

Baines tipped for the top

21 Sep 2006 - 14:14:10

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Wigan Athletic defender Matt Jackson has tipped Leighton Baines to force his way into the England team.

The Latics' 21-year-old left-back is already a regular for the Under-21s and Jackson believes a step up to the senior side is not too far away.

"Up to now, his play has been excellent and he is one of the best left-backs in the country," the veteran told the Wigan Evening Post.

"He knows the game very well, shows a great level of consistency, and he can definitely go on to play for the full England side.

"He's a quiet lad, but once he starts to impose himself and realise how good he is, he has every chance.

"England have Ashley Cole and Wayne Bridge, but after them there aren't too many good left-backs, certainly not with Bainesy's consistency.

"With the quality of his left foot, he can be a really good England prospect."