Name: | Leighton Baines (Leighton John Baines) |
Born: | 11 December, 1984 – Kirkby, England |
Spouse: | Racheal Baines (m. 2009) |
Position: | Defender |
Clubs: | Wigan Athletic -(2002-2007)
Everton-(2007-2020) |
Nationality: | England |
Appearances (Goals): | 578(43) |
Trophies: |
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Start
Leighton Baines is a former English footballer who played as a left-back for Everton and the England national team. Leighton Baines has established himself as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League and has won numerous awards and accolades for his performances.
Baines was born on December 11, 1984, in Kirkby, England. He started his youth career at Wigan Athletic and progressed through the ranks to make his professional debut in 2002. After impressing in the lower leagues, Baines signed for Everton in 2007 and went on to make over 400 appearances for the club.
Baines quickly established himself as a key player for Everton. His performances earned him widespread recognition. He was known for his excellent delivery from set-pieces, with his deadly accuracy and consistency in delivering the ball into dangerous areas making him a valuable asset for his team. Baines also possessed excellent technical ability, which allowed him to dribble past opponents and create chances for his teammates.
Leighton Baines at Everton
Baines’ first season at Everton was a successful one, as he helped the club secure a place in the UEFA Cup for the first time in four years. He scored his first goal for Everton in a 2-0 win against Newcastle United in December 2007. He quickly became a fan favorite for his consistent performances.
Over the next few years, Baines continued to be an integral part of the Everton team. He played a key role in the club’s run to the FA Cup final in 2009, where they narrowly lost to Chelsea. Baines was named the Everton Player of the Season for the 2010-11 season, and he went on to win the award again in 2012-13.
Baines’ performances for Everton earned him a call-up to the England national team in 2009, and he went on to make 30 appearances for his country. He was part of the England squad that competed in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he started in all three group stage matches.
Throughout his career, Baines received numerous awards and accolades. In addition to winning the Everton Player of the Season award twice, he was also included in the PFA Team of the Year in 2012 and 2013. Baines was also named the Everton Fans’ Player of the Season in 2013 and was awarded the Premier League’s Best Free Kick Taker in 2014.
Baines’ last appearance for Everton came in July 2020, and he announced his retirement from professional football shortly thereafter. He left the club as one of its most beloved players, and his legacy in football will undoubtedly live on.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Leighton Baines was an exceptional left-back who possessed a wide range of skills that made him a valuable asset for his team. His excellent delivery from set-pieces, technical ability, and consistency on the pitch earned him numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. Baines’ impact on Everton and the Premier League will not be forgotten. His performances on the pitch will be remembered by fans and fellow professionals alike for years to come.