Everton full-back Leighton Baines may have claimed that he and his teammates were now playing for their futures as they sit precariously in the bottom half of the Premier League table, but there are some players in Roberto Martinez’s squad who will surely be playing in the top flight next season, regardless of whether the Toffees decide to have a summer clearout, aimed at changing their fortunes, or the unthinkable happens and the team are relegated.
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Here are five of those players who will almost definitely be snapped up should the Merseyside club somehow be relegated for the first time in the Premier League era:
Leighton Baines
The full-back is always a consistent performer for both his club and country, and would sure up almost any defence in the Premier League. His commitment to Everton – having reportedly rejected a move to Manchester United in the past – may be a stumbling block to any potential move away from Goodison Park.
Seamus Coleman
The 26-year-old has become a regular for the team, and offers a lot as a defender, but also in terms of supporting an attack with an overlapping run down the wing. Should Everton go down, very few sides would not be keen on adding the Republic of Ireland international, and he may be the answer to Manchester United’s problematic right-back area.
Romelu Lukaku
The club’s record signing may be considered something of a flop since his permanent move to the club, but every now and then the Belgian displays a glimpse of the quality that forced Bill Kenwright to part with nearly £30m for the youngster. If they were to be relegated, it would probably cost a fraction of that fee to take the 21-year-old away, tempting plenty of clubs. Perhaps his best option would be Southampton, who look in desperate need of a new attacking option.
Steven Naismith
Steven Naismith has been one of the positives of Everton’s season, consistently offering great performances, and chipping in with seven league goals. He could arguably do a good job for any team in the league, as versatility and work-rate are his main attributes.
Ross Barkley
Ross Barkley has excited and frustrated Everton fans in equal measure since his emergence in 2011. The attacking midfielder quite clearly has the talent and skill to be one of the best players in the league, but consistency seems to be a major issue. His evident ability could see him snapped up by one of the top teams in the league, who believe they can bring the best out of him.