Everton manager Roberto Martinez has revealed that defender Phil Jagielka could be fit to play against Manchester City at Goodison Park on Saturday.
The England international has missed the last 11 games due to a hamstring injury, while teammate Sylvain Distin sat out Saturday's defeat at Southampton with a similar complaint.
Martinez has said that he will leave it until the last possible moment before deciding whether the pair can be involved against Manuel Pellegrini's side.
"Phil has done really well in his programme and has developed strength in his muscles. He looks completely regenerated and is desperate to be available," Martinez told Everton's official website.
"It will be a late call whether he is available or not but I would be surprised if he doesn't make the squad for Saturday.
"Sylvain Distin again is pushing himself to be available. We need to carry on with the programme that he has and make sure that the treatment is bringing a good effect I would say he is 50/50 for the weekend but now we have hope that we will see Sylvain before the seasons ends which is a fantastic bonus."
Everton sit fifth in the Premier League ahead of the game, while City are third.
Steven Toplis
