Legendary backing for Baines

Kennedy, who also had a spell with the Latics in the early 1990's, played left-back in his playing career and fully expects Baines to challenge Ashley Cole for Englands left-back position.

He told the Manchester evening News: "I would think it's fair to say that Baines is not too far behind England's first-choice left-back Ashley Cole.

I think he tidies up quite well, he scored a cracking goal against Tottenham at the weekend and I don't think it will be too long before he wins a full England cap because he has done really well for Wigan."

It remains to be seen whether Baines can fulfill his England ambitions at Wigan, after failing to be nominated for young player of the season, despite a magnificent season.