As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Martinez not prepared to lose Everton 'icon' Baines

Everton manager Roberto Martinez insists that the club will not look to sell Leighton Baines this month or anytime soon.

The England left-back has been a transfer target for Manchester United in recent months but Martinez is confident he will want to sign a new contract with the Toffees.

"You know how important he is for us," Martinez told Sky Sports following Everton's 1-1 draw at West Bromwich Albion on Monday night.

"He is in the best moment of his career and has got a real maturity which allows him to think on the pitch and make good decisions.

"He's not just a player, but a real icon of our football club, so clearly we want him to stay as long as we can.

"There is nothing to announce at the moment, but the way he's playing, he's looking to try to progress and develop.

"He is a player that you can imagine everyone at the football club would love to see him enjoying his football here for a longer period."

 For breaking stories and all the great banter like us on Facebook: facebook.com/tribalfootball

Video of the day:

Andrew Slevison
About the author

Andrew Slevison

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free