Despite an important penalty miss at Old Trafford, Leighton Baines is enjoying an individually impressive season.
With one Premier League win to date, Everton have been one of the more under-whelming teams of the season so far.
Despite a disappointing penalty miss at Old Trafford, Leighton Baines has been one of the most consistent players for the Toffees, as ever, and is by far their leading creative force.
Through seven games, Baines has created 16 goalscoring opportunities – by far the most in the Everton side this season.
| Team | Key Passes | Apps | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leighton Baines | Everton | 16 | 7 |
| Aiden McGeady | Everton | 7 | 6 |
| Kevin Mirallas | Everton | 7 | 6 |
| Steven Naismith | Everton | 6 | 7 |
| Leon Osman | Everton | 4 | 4 |
Baines has made twice as many key passes as his nearest teammate, many of which coming from his accurate set piece deliveries, three culminating in assists.
The England international’s tackling has also been a strong part of his game this campaign – he again leads the Everton defence in this area, and is the joint team leader with two midfield players.
| Pos | Won Tackle | Apps | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leighton Baines | DF | 15 | 7 |
| Gareth Barry | MF | 15 | 7 |
| James McCarthy | MF | 15 | 6 |
| Phil Jagielka | DF | 8 | 7 |
| Steven Naismith | FW | 8 | 7 |
Defensively Everton have suffered this season, with a number of individual errors letting the side down. Baines’ efforts however are notable, and a key reason the club had to fend off interest for his services over a year ago.
If he can continue his level of performance, and others can increase theirs, then there is no reason why, with a few softer fixtures coming up against Aston Villa, Burnley, Swansea and Sunderland, the Toffees won’t rise up the table after the international break.
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