Displacing England legend Ashley Cole from his left-back spot for England look virtually an impossible task for a while until Leighton Baines came along.

Baines had been threatening to take over from Cole as England’s first choice left-back in the last few years and the 29-year old was finally able to dislodge the former Chelsea man to make the position his own with some fine performances this season.

Baines was almost an ever-present in Everton’s fine campaign and it goes without saying that the defender was one of the main reasons why the Toffees enjoyed such a magnificent season.

Heading into the World Cup, the Everton full back certainly has a huge role to play for the Three Lions and although England are not expected to make much of an impact, Baines looks set to impress at the World Cup.

Probability of making an impact at the World Cup

There is no doubting that Baines will be starting majority of England’s games at the World Cup, with young Luke Shaw serving as his back up. While Baines’ lack of experience at the major tournaments, there is no doubting that the Everton full-back will be looking to prove to critics that he is capable of filling Ashley Cole’s huge boots.

In a solid if unspectacular England lineup, Baines is the major component of the English defence which is undoubtedly their strength heading into Brazil.

It is not just his defensive solidity which will be vital for England though, as the 29-year old has proven that he is a great threat going forward and his expertise on the dead ball will surely come handy against teams such as Uruguay and Costa Rica.