Landon Donovan has revealed he voted for Leighton Baines to win Everton's player's player of the year award.
Baines, who has enjoyed his most successful season yet at left-back for Everton received the award from club captain Phil Neville at the awards ceremony in Liverpool's Anglican cathedral this week.
Speaking from Los Angeles where Donovan he has now returned to play for L.A Galaxy, the American star heaped praise on Baines consistent form, backing him to be England's first choice replacement, should Ashley Cole pick up a knock.
He said: “Bainesy gets my vote because he’s been so consistent."
"You don’t get into England squads if you’re not a class player and Bainesy has proved himself to be one of the best left-backs in the Premier League."
The USA will meet England in their first group game in Rustenburg on June 12, and Donovan is looking forward to catching up with his old team mate.
“I thoroughly enjoyed playing alongside him and hope to play against him when the US meet England in South Africa.”
Donovan still hopes to return to Everton next year having made such a positive impression at Goodison Park in his short stint this season.
But it's not just the fans who Donovan endeared himself to, the American revealed that he has made some good friends at the club who he still keeps in touch with.
I keep in touch with the guys and I know they’re looking forward to the Awards Night, I’ll be thinking about everyone on 4th May and I’ll be wishing I was over there celebrating with them all."
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Pablo, Liverpool around 1 year, 9 months ago