David Moyes has declared that midfielder Darron Gibson could make his Everton return against Norwich City this weekend.
Gibson has been out since early September with a thigh injury but is close to a first-team comeback after coming through a reserve run-out unscathed earlier this week.
Moyes has insisted that Gibson is nearing full fitness but is cautious over rushing him back into Premier League action.
He told reporters: "He's coming on and doing okay, he could play a part.
"He had a game for the Under-21s last week so he's making some progress.
"We need everyone back. We've had a few injuries but it's the same for every club. We want everybody back, but you've got to get them back at the right time and when you think they're ready."
Everton are already without Belgian international Marouane Fellaini for tomorrow's match as he serves a one-match suspension for accumulating five yellow cards.
