Everton defender Leighton Baines has revealed the reasons behind his decision to sign a new contract at Goodison Park, instead of joining David Moyes at Manchester United.
The English left-back has been a United target for the last three seasons, but after rejecting the move whilst Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge, people thought a move may be more likely once Moyes left The Toffees for United in the Summer.
However, EVerton rejected all bids made from United and Baines remained a Toffee, and now he has put all speculation about his future to bed by signing a new contract at Goodison Park.
“I am delighted to have agreed the new deal,” he told the club website. “I am very happy at Everton and always have been. It’s a fantastic football club and I am excited about what we can achieve here in the next few years.
“I have a great relationship with the chairman and also the manager, the staff, the rest of the lads and, of course, the supporters. I’ve loved every minute of being here since I first joined in 2007 and I couldn’t be happier.
“I’ve never been one to relish the limelight so I suppose I’m glad that the speculation will go away now.”
“There is a really confident buzz about the place just now and that’s being reflected in our performances.
“We’re well-placed in the Premier League, we’re in the fifth round of the FA Cup and although we’ve got a few injuries, we feel as though we are ready for every challenge.
“The ambition is to bring some success to the club. That’s what all the lads want and that’s what we’re all working together for.
“The Everton fans deserve success and I am just happy to be in the privileged position of being able to try and provide some for them.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt – @AlexsArticles
