David Moyes has made some inspired decisions at Everton, but his choice to bring Leighton Baines into the fold has paid off dividends.
Evertonians hold a great admiration for Baines after the work he did as a player, but now he’s replicating that as a coach.
The Everton manager made the wise choice to include Baines on his staff, as Moyes trusts Baines and it seems like whatever he’s done behind the scenes is working.
It’s no surprise that the former left-back is held in such high regard, as Baines’ former Everton teammates love him.
Of course, Moyes will get the credit, but Baines deserves some plaudits, and the Scotsman has done just that and explained exactly why Baines is the recipe to success.
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images
What Baines has done at Everton that has ‘really impressed’ David Moyes
It still doesn’t feel like that long ago since Moyes was appointed, but the Toffees boss has made a brilliant impact on and off the pitch.
Philippe Senderos said Moyes emulated his first spell through his work in bringing togetherness into the squad, which is something Sean Dyche lacked.
But Moyes has also brought in an incredible backroom team, which includes Baines, as speaking in his Wolves pre-match press conference, the Everton boss can’t hail the 40-year-old enough.
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“He’s played a huge role, and I’m really impressed by him,” Moyes said.
“There’s a lot of really good young coaches out there in world football, and I’d put Leighton in that area as well.
“He’s got great insight, and he’s helping us a lot.”
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It seems the former Toffees full-back could keep playing himself as Baines was spotted involved in Everton training.
His career pictures exactly what you’d expect from the ultimate professional and Baines can rub off his wisdom on Vitaliy Mykolenko.
With the Ukrainian being Moyes’ main option at left-back, of course one of the Premier League’s best ever left backs will share his strengths.
It’s become apparent that it’s already working, as Mykolenko grabbed his first Everton assist and could become the real deal under Baines’ guidance.
Evertonians could find themselves with the ‘next Baines’ at Everton, and who better to create the next Baines then the man himself.