Baines: We've Got A Bit Of Everything

Leighton Baines is revelling in Everton's attacking versatility.

There were fine examples of the Blues mixing their passing game with a more direct style during the 2-2 draw with Fulham at the weekend.

First, Marouane Fellaini capped a smart move with a clinical finish before the big man pulled down a long ball and scored his second.

Baines says Everton's contrasting styles are a real strength.

The England man said: "When we’re at our best we mix it up; we go long and we play football as well and that’s when teams don’t know what to do with us.

“They’re not sure whether to come in and get tight or stand off. We’re not over-reliant on creative players or passing that can sometimes be a bit one-dimensional; we’ve got a bit of everything. We can beat teams up and play around them.

Fulham manager Martin Jol admitted his side had been outclassed, praising in particular the work of Everton's full-backs.

The Dutchman said: “The only thing that I can say that’s positive is that we never gave up. Everton were stronger than us, they are a very good team and they pressed us and their full-backs were almost playing like Barcelona’s do.

“We were playing a very good team who had a lot of possession but the game changed over 90 minutes.

“They dominated us and Alexander Kacaniklic was nearly playing at left-back, while Damien Duff over the other side was the same.

"We had a spare man in midfield, but they were almost playing a 4-2-4 and Fellaini was more of a striker than a midfield player today and it’s a very good and brave style."