Everton manager Roberto Martinez has confirmed that Leighton Baines will be staying at the club until at least the end of the season.
The England left-back has been rumoured to be leaving the Toffees with the likes of Manchester United interested in his services, but Martinez has confirmed that Baines is staying put.
Baines has 18 months left on his current contract and Martinez has confirmed the importance of the left-back in his squad if they are to be successful this season.
“In football you don't work long term, you go window to window and I can guarantee that Leighton will be here at the end of the season,” said Martinez.
“That is 100 per cent.
“That is how you work from window to window - to have a stronger squad than previously.
“Leighton is vital for us in the second half of the season.
“Bryan Oviedo has been terrific, but we need Leighton and Bryan fit for us, if we are going to fight for our football dream.”
In other transfer news coming out of the Everton camp they have confirmed the signings of winger Aiden McGeady from Spartak Moscow.
The Toffees are currently placed sixth on the English Premier League table on 41 points, two points behind fourth place Liverpool.
Everton, though, are in action on Monday night against West Brom and a win could see them up to fourth on the table.