One of the most productive defenders, Leighton Baines, has ended his career at the age of 35. He has 67 assists in his career (in all tournaments together).
Everton veteran left-back Leighton Baines has finished a career at the age of 35. The former England international made the announcement yesterday after losing against Bournemouth at Goodison Park.
Baines joined Everton from Wigan in 2007, and since then, the Englishman has made 420 appearances for the club. He managed to score 39 goals and assist 67 times. Although, the career of an Albion veteran passed without winning titles.
The former winger has repeatedly been a target for Premier League grandees, though he has remained loyal to his team. “Everton should thank him,” Carlo Ancelotti said after the game.
“We really want Baines to stay in the team. He will have time to think.” – added the Italian. Leighton Baines has played 30 games for England and represented the homeland at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Statistics: In Premier League history, only Ashley Young (69) has scored more assists than Leighton Baines (53). Third, is Antonio Valencia (45). However, keep in mind that Young and Valencia became defenders at the end of their careers and had a peak in form when they were attacking midfielders.