Baines on Blackburn

Leighton Baines wants Everton to beat Blackburn and fire themselves further up the Premier League table.

The Blues currently sit 11th in the Barclays Premier League table, eight points and six places above Steve Kean´s strugglers.

Saturday´s opponents managed a 3-1 win over Fulham last weekend despite playing much of the game with 10 men – but Baines says the clash provides a perfect opportunity for Everton to put three valuable points on the board.

“The results have just picked up for them recently and they´ve picked up a few more wins than they did in the early part of the season,” he said.

“But the league is so tight and everyone´s within touching distance of each other, so it´s important we win games like this – not only to make the gap between us and teams in positions like Blackburn bigger, but also to keep us in reach of the teams above us as well.”

One positive as far as Baines is concerned is the unavailability of former Everton striker Yakubu.

The Nigerian has notched 13 goals in 19 appearances since leaving for Ewood Park last summer but misses out on a return to sit out the first game of a three-match suspension.

“It probably helps us because he´s been in the goals and we know he´s capable of scoring goals when you get him playing like that,” said Baines. “They´ve got good players there and I´m sure they´ll be able to bring someone else in to do the job – but a Yak on form can be a tough prospect at times.”

Tickets are still available for Saturday’s match and prices start from only £25 for adults and £12.50 for juniors. To buy your tickets call 0871 663 1878 or drop into the box office at Goodison Park.