DAVID MOYES says Leighton Baines has brought international class to Everton.

The England left-back was influential in Saturday’s 2-0 win at Bolton Wanderers and his manager rates him as good as national number one Ashley Cole.

Moyes admits it took time for Baines to settle at Goodison Park following his move from Wigan Athletic in 2007 but he has since flourished into a top level left-back.

“Bainsey is a left back who plays like an international now, he is maturing and making the right decisions more often,” said Moyes.

“He is taking on more responsibility, he even had a shot on Saturday where there was no one in the box and he was right to shoot, so that shows his decision making is improving.

“He is an all round really good left back. Leighton Baines definitely has real quality. If you are looking around the Premier League, then you are talking about Ashley Cole, and Bainsey is up there with him. He has been a great signing for us, but he didn’t settle straight away, we had to give him time. I’ve seen him grow up a little bit and mature, and he is now one of the core players who drive the team.”

Baines, who played in every minute of Everton’s Premier League campaign last season, contributed with seven goals and 11 assists.

It came as no surprise to Moyes that this campaign opposition sides have tried to shackle the 26-year-old and even double up with markers on him.