Ramiro Funes Mori: 'I'm fit to return for Everton'

Everton defender Ramiro Funes Mori has declared himself fit to return to the first team following a long-term knee injury.

The Argentine centre-back, who had surgery in March last year following a game against Hull City, has slowly eased his way back into contention for a spot in Sam Allardyce's team.

The 27-year-old told Everton's official website that he is keen to return to the first team after a long spell on the sidelines.

"I've been training good these past weeks," Funes Mori said. "Even though I wasn't playing for the first team, I've been playing for the Under-23s to get the rhythm, get the tempo. I'm 100% fit to play and I'm ready for Saturday."

The defender also said that he is targeting a spot in his national team's World Cup squad ahead of the finals this summer.

"I'm very satisfied that the manager (Jorge Sampaoli) has called me even though I haven't played for the first team. But I'm fit, I'm ready to play. I'm feeling good hopefully I get my chance and go on from there."

Everton welcome Brighton & Hove Albion to Goodison Park in their next league outing on Saturday.