I was stressed over United bid, says Baines
LEIGHTON BAINES has spoken for the first time about the stress that came with being involved in a tug-of-war between Everton and Manchester United last summer. Having helped propel Everton into the race for a Champions League place and established himself as England’s left back ahead of the World Cup, Baines is in high spirits as another season of consistency draws to a close.
It was, however, quite different in August when his former manager David Moyes attempted to sign him for United in a saga that dragged through to the final day of the transfer window.
Baines’s conduct throughout remained faultless, training every day and playing in all games, and he subsequently signed a new long- term contract in January. But he admits there were times when the situation was tough.
He said: ‘I guess you never know if you’re doing the right thing but at the time it’s not your decision as a player to make those calls. I wanted to be kept informed and I spoke to the manager pri-privately on numerous us occasions and I spoke with the chairman.
‘It was a bit of a stressful time because you’re not sure what way it’s going to go. You just try to o conduct yourself in the proper manner nner as much as you cancan. I had those conversations myself. I didn’t have someone in there for me.
‘You might get credit that you probably don’t deserve for turning someone down. I sat oon the fence and saw how the thing played out.’ Quiet and unassuming by nature, Baines has blossomed in his seven years at Goodison from a young man unsure of his position in the squad to one who will be carrying the fight to Manchester City this evening, as Everton aim to secure the points that will guarantee European football.
Baines, as always, will be on penalty duty and he is aware he could be responsible for blowing the title race open.
Those Liverpool fans clinging to omens should be aware that Everton have never lost any of the 15 Premier League games in which Baines has scored from the spot.
‘Loads of people have mentioned the scenario of helping Liverpool but we want to win the game, pure and simple,’ said Baines.
‘You understand the fans’ side of the rivalry but you shouldn’t judge yourself on others’ success or failure.
‘Liverpool not winning the league doesn’t make us any better.’