Everton manager Roberto Martinez believes that Christian Atsu will help boost the team's season when he returns from the Africa Cup of Nations.
The winger, who is on loan at Goodison Park from Chelsea, has made just three appearances for the Toffees so far this season.
The 23-year-old was on the losing side of Ghana's 2-1 defeat to Senegal in their opening match, but impressed for his nation.
"We have been missing too many players, even up to the extent of losing someone like Christian Atsu who was getting stronger," the Liverpool Echo quotes Martinez as saying. "This would have been a good period for him to be available.
"When he comes back from the Africa Cup of Nations he could join some players who will make us really strong again in numbers."
Reports have claimed that Atsu may be sent elsewhere for the remainder of the season, with Chelsea said to be keen on securing a loan deal with Derby County.
Danielle Joynson
