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Baines: England battle drives me on

Leighton Baines has had a positive start to the season with the Toffees Credit: PA Images

Everton left-back Leighton Baines says the battle for the international spot has been driving him on this season.

The 27-year-old has featured for his country this season, but says with Ashely Cole the established choice back in the squad, he has a fight on his hands.

"I've been trying to keep my form up at club level between the two international breaks," he told evertontv.

"The competition for places is just the way it is. It's something you just have to accept.

"You respect the players in the squad and the other players who are in your position that much that you know you may not play.

"All you can always do is do the best you can for your club and that's what I've been trying to do."

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Rooney ready and raring to go for England

by David Chisnall
Wayne Rooney excited to return for England in their final Euro 2012 group game with Ukraine Credit: AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

Manchester United's Wayne Rooney says he's delighted to be back and feels ready and excited to get out onto the pitch. With his club team-mate Danny Welbeck and Liverpool's Andy Carroll both in scoring form for England, the striker says it's great to have competition to push him to be at his best.

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