Baines snub for frustrated Sunderland boss Keane

SUNDERLAND boss Roy Keane is facing further frustration after his protracted pursuit of Leighton Baines came to nothing.

Wearside was buzzing on Monday when it emerged that Wigan, who had turned down three earlier bids for their 22-year-old left-back, had finally given the Black Cats permission to talk to him.

However, the Latics yesterday revealed the England U-21 international would not be heading north and was instead included in the squad for last night’s friendly at Blackpool after recovering from a virus.

The news came amid claims that Everton had made a move for the Liverpool-born defender, although Wigan manager Chris Hutchings was treading a diplomatic line as he commented on Baines’ return to the squad.

Hutchings did not mention Sunderland and their pursuit directly, but added: “Leighton is a first-class pro and a first-class person and despite all the speculation and rumour surrounding his future, he has remained professional throughout and as ever is a joy to work with.

“I have coached him since he first broke into the first team as a young apprentice and taken great satisfaction in how he has developed as a player and an individual.”

Hutchings has maintained for much of the summer that Baines wants to stay at the JJB Stadium, but his recent admission that every player has his price was followed by Sunderland’s latest approach.

However, Keane has been unable to sell his ambitious vision for his club to one of English football’s most promising defensive prospects.