Everton boss David Moyes thinks Leighton Baines is deserving of a place in England's World Cup squad.
Toffees boss feels full-back is international class
Everton boss David Moyes thinks Leighton Baines is deserving of a place in England's World Cup squad.
The 25-year-old was called upon twice by Fabio Capello last year, but is yet to be capped at senior level.
The former U21 international could be awarded an opportunity to prove himself over the coming months, and stake a claim for a regular role, as first-choice left-back Ashley Cole has suffered an untimely injury.
The Chelsea ace fractured his ankle during the Blues' 2-1 defeat at Everton on Wednesday and is now facing up to three months on the sidelines.
His place on the plane to South Africa this summer is now far from guaranteed, potentially opening the door for those on the fringes of the fold.
Consistent
Baines is among those hoping to be given a chance to show what they can do, and his manager at club level feels the former Wigan man would not let anyone down.
Moyes, speaking before the severity of Cole's injury was confirmed, said: "I think the England left-backs will be Ashley Cole and Wayne Bridge and then I think it is toss-up between Stephen Warnock and Leighton Baines.
"I think Bainesy on his day is a match for any of them and I know Fabio Capello knows about him. He is certainly in and around the reckoning.
"He has been a very consistent player for us this season, as he was last year.
"I think Bainesy is one of the players who has kept a good level of performance even when things weren't going well."
