Graeme Jones predicts great things from Baines and Coleman

Everton FC defenders are key to the club's future success

22 Jul 2013 08:00

Assistant boss Graeme Jones predicts great things from Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman



Seamus Coleman and Leighton Baines will form a crucial part of the new-look Everton, says Graeme Jones.

The pair can flourish under the tactical approach of Roberto Martinez, and his assistant manager Jones admits he is excited at the prospect of unleashing them on Premier League opponents.

He said: “Seamus and Leighton can be our wing-backs next season.

“We used to watch them when we were at our previous club and Seamus would cross while Leighton would be at the back post in the box.

"They’re like wing-backs anyway and if they can do that from a full-back role too then we’re in business.”

Coleman has returned from his summer break in good shape, and impressed with a typically lively second half run out during the 4-1 win over Accrington Stanley last week.

Jones believes the 24-year-old has the potential to become one of the most exciting right-sided defenders in the top flight next term, and has been delighted with the Republic of Ireland international’s application so far.

“His movement is a bit of a lesson for all strikers because he loves to penetrate in behind,” he said.

“Darron Gibson gets two seconds on the ball and Seamus is the first to move so for a boy whose only had two training sessions in five weeks it’s refreshing and really good to see.

“We’re excited to work with him. He’s a naturally fit boy or he wouldn’t have had 45 minutes so it bodes really well.”

Meanwhile, Everton will officially launch their home kit for the 2013/14 season next week with the help of two first-team players.

Summer signing Arouna Kone and team-mate Kevin Mirallas will be at Everton Two on Wednesday to mark the launch of the Nike kit and meet fans ahead of the season.

Between 4pm and 6pm, Radio City’s breakfast show presenter Simon Ross will be hosting the event with music and prizes being given away, including a signed 2013/14 home shirt and a pair of Mirallas’ boots, autographed by the Belgium international.

Source: Echo