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Baines, 29, recently returned from a layoff with a fractured toe but Costa Rican Oviedo, 23, was a more than capable replacement.

The left-back even notched up two goals during Baines' absence - including the late winner at Old Trafford against Manchester United.

But when Baines returned against Southampton on December 29, Martinez was handed a selection problem.

The Spaniard, who is expected to get Republic of Ireland international Aiden McGeady to sign a pre-contract agreement this month, used Oviedo as a winger against Saints.

And he did so well that the defensive duo now hope to play together more often.

Oviedo said: "Yes, of course we can play together. I know I have very good competition with Leighton and whenever we play, we need to do the best.

"My best position is left-back but I can play as a left winger. It's a bit different but it's more important to just play games. Playing in any position is good."

Baines is happy to have his left-back rival ahead of him down the wing.

He said: "He's played in front of me and he's equally as comfortable in that role.

"He's done a great job and made a great effort over the last few weeks to come in out of the cold and play as well as he has. We are going to need everyone.

"There are other players to come back and we have seen that the manager is quite savvy in how to utilise the squad, bringing players in and out."

McGeady, 27, is out of contract at Spartak Moscow in the summer and is free to talk to other clubs.

The Glasgow-born winger's family have not settled in Eastern Europe and he wants to play in the Premier League.