Everton boss Roberto Martinez is delighted to have managed to keep Leighton Baines away from today's opponents Manchester United.
Martinez is pleased Baines didn't quit the club and stayed to establish himself as "the best left back in the world."
He said: "Leighton is unique. He's an out and out Evertonian. For me, he's the best left back in world football and in the best moment of his career.
"In the middle of a World Cup year, he's a valuable asset for our football. With Leighton, we never got into a position where a club met his valuation.
"He's quite unique in that he showed an incredible professionalism during a difficult time. From that point he has moved on and is a better player than he was last season.
"And I think the best is still to come. He can play in midfield. That's 100 per cent. I'm not sure if he will do it next season but in the future. Definitely.
"He has got the know how. He has got the experience and the understanding. And as a football club we will benefit so much from that flexibility."
