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Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images
Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images

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Lucas Digne performance v Newcastle shows he has long way to go before emulating Leighton Baines

Mathew Nash
Mathew Nash

Lucas Digne has undoubtedly been a good replacement for Leighton Baines. The French international joined Everton After struggling for playing time at Barcelona and PSG in recent years, it hard to remember just how in demand he was after starring for Lille.

Everton fans are undoubtedly impressed and can see why he has played at such prestigious European powers.

Baines, now 33-years-old, had been struggling for some time at left-back for Everton, with injury and age not helping matters.

Digne is quick, direct, ambitious and popular. All-in-all, a great replacement.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 02: Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool and Lucas Digne of Everton during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Everton FC at Anfield on December 2, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

However, he is not yet as good as Baines in his prime. Last night proved it. Everton drew 1-1 in a game they would have wanted to win against Newcastle United.

Digne was a constant menace down the left-hand side for Everton but his final ball was atrocious.

This season he has just the one assist in the league. From the positions he has been getting in, which admittedly Baines can no longer physically match, the former England defender would have many more. His incredible record of 66 assists for Everton prove that fact.

Digne was a frustrating layer for Everton yesterday, failing to beat the first man with many deliveries and he must get training with Baines to try and emulate the club legend.