Tim Howard: 'I'd cry if Leighton Baines left'

Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has said that he would "probably cry" if Leighton Baines left the club.

The ever-present left-back has been linked with a move to Manchester United this summer but the Red Devils have now snapped up young Dutchman Alexander Buttner as cover for Patrice Evra.

"If Bainesy left I would probably cry because he's the guy you can always count on," American keeper Howard told BBC Sport's Football Focus.

"Bainesy has been our best player consistently over the last three or four seasons.

"He's going to give you eight out of 10 every week. That's why Manchester United and others are sniffing around him."

Baines, 27, has played over 200 times for Everton since signing from Wigan Athletic in August 2007, also earning nine England caps.