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Seamus Coleman has explained how watching Leighton Baines helped him develop his game as an attacking full-back.

Baines has 30 goals and 50 assists across his 12-year Premier League career and the Everton defender has long since established a reputation as one of the most effective left-backs in the division going forward.

The 32-year-old was recognised for his 10 years of service to Everton at a special event at Goodison Park on Tuesday night alongside teammate Phil Jagielka.

And right-sided defender Coleman , who joined the Blues from Sligo Rovers in 2009, has told of how he tried to improve as a full-back by watching his teammates Baines operate with distinction down the left.

(Image: Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)

Coleman told the club's official website: "Early on, there were quite a few full-backs at Everton. Phil [Neville] was here, Tony Hibbert as well - someone I really looked up to and really wanted to learn from - and Bainesy on the other side.

"He got in the PFA team of the season twice and has now got the most assists in the Premier League for a defender, so he was someone I probably tried to watch and learn from the most.

(Image: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

"We both played in similar positions and that relationship he had with Steven Pienaar was probably the best left-hand side in the league.

"And when I say probably, I’m sure of it.

"He probably had that little bit more composure and quality than me in the final third and that was something I wanted to work on and learn from."

(Image: Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

The Irishman was also full of praise for both Baines and Jagielka for their achievements over the past decade with the Toffees.

The pair have made a combined 703 appearances for Everton, and Coleman believes their longevity is testament to both players' ability and desire.

"This [reaching 10 years] will mean a lot to them both," he added.

"For Bainesy being a local lad, it’ll mean a lot and, with Jags, since he’s signed he’s understood the club, he’s got the club and become an Evertonian.



"It’s a top Premier League club to do that at and, in this day and age, it’s very rare.



"You always have to be on your game or someone is going to replace you, so I hope people realise over the 10 years they’ve been here they’ve been outstanding players for the club and outstanding players for the league, too."

Coleman hasn't played since suffering a horrendous leg break on international duty in March, but is back in training at Finch Farm .