# Leighton Baines

> English association football player (born 1984)

**Wikidata**: [Q187989](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q187989)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leighton_Baines)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/leighton-baines

## Summary
Leighton Baines is an English professional association football player, born in 1984, best known for his career as a left-back and his significant contributions to clubs like Everton and the England national team. He is recognized for his consistency, defensive skills, and ability to contribute offensively from the backline.

## Biography
- Born: December 11, 1984
- Nationality: United Kingdom
- Education: Not specified
- Known for: Playing as a left-back in professional football
- Employer(s): Everton F.C., England national football team
- Field(s): Association football

## Contributions
Leighton Baines has built a reputation as a reliable and skilled left-back, known for his tenure at Everton and his role in the England national team. His contributions include:
- Playing over 380 matches for Everton from 2007 to 2021.
- Scoring over 20 goals for Everton, an impressive tally for a defender.
- Representing England in international competitions, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012.
- Earning over 30 caps for the England national team.
- Being recognized for his set-piece delivery and crossing accuracy.

## FAQs
### What is Leighton Baines known for?
Leighton Baines is known for his professional football career, primarily as a left-back, where he gained recognition for his time at Everton and the England national team. He is noted for his consistency, goal contributions as a defender, and set-piece expertise.

### What teams did Leighton Baines play for?
Leighton Baines played for Everton from 2007 to 2021, making over 380 appearances, and was a key figure in the club's defensive setup. He also represented England at the international level, earning over 30 caps.

### What position did Leighton Baines play?
Leighton Baines played as a left-back, known for his solid defending, overlapping runs, and precise set-piece delivery.

### When did Leighton Baines play for England?
He earned over 30 caps for the England national team, participating in major tournaments such as the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012.

### What are some highlights of Leighton Baines's career?
Key highlights include his long tenure at Everton, his goal-scoring record for a defender, and his participation in international tournaments with the England national team.

## Why They Matter
Leighton Baines is significant in English football for his role as a model left-back who combined defensive solidity with offensive contributions. His impact on Everton’s defensive structure and his representation of England on the international stage have left a lasting legacy in the sport. His ability to contribute goals from the back, including memorable free-kicks and consistent performances, made him a standout player in the Premier League.

## Notable For
- Representing England in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012
- Scoring over 20 goals for Everton, a rare feat for a defender
- Earning over 30 caps for the England national team
- Being a consistent performer for Everton over more than a decade
- Known for his precise set-piece delivery and crossing ability

## Body
### Early Life and Career
Leighton Baines was born on December 11, 1984, in England. He began his professional football career at Wigan Athletic, where he developed into a standout left-back. His performances at Wigan caught the attention of Everton, leading to his transfer in 2007.

### Club Career
Baines joined Everton in 2007, where he became a cornerstone of the team's defense. Over his 14-year tenure, he made over 380 appearances and scored more than 20 goals, an exceptional record for a defender. His crossing accuracy and set-piece delivery were key assets, making him a dual threat in both defensive and offensive phases.

### International Career
Leighton Baines represented England, earning over 30 caps. He played in major international tournaments, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012. His performances on the international stage were consistent with his club form, showcasing his reliability and skill.

### Playing Style and Legacy
Baines was known for his consistency, crossing ability, and goal contributions. As a full-back, he was not only solid defensively but also a significant attacking asset, often scoring or assisting from set-pieces. His legacy includes being one of the most dependable left-backs in the Premier League during his era.

### Retirement and Post-Football Involvement
After retiring from professional play, Baines transitioned into coaching and other roles within football, continuing his influence in the sport. His career remains a benchmark for full-back excellence in English football.

## References

1. Transfermarkt
2. FBref
3. As
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. Quora