Everton manager Roberto Martinez has revealed that Leighton Baines is a fortnight away from returning from his ankle ligament injury.
The England left-back, 30, is yet to play for the Toffees this season due to the problem, but Martinez said that he is almost back to full match fitness.
"Leighton Baines has been given the all clear to step up the final stages of his recovery. He's not far off at all," Martinez told reporters.
"When you get to know Leighton you learn not to set a target because he will always get ahead of the expected time but we have had a very good two weeks work with Leighton and he is ready to join the group.
I would say [another] two weeks would be the right period of time he needs to come back strong and stay fit for the remainder of the season."
Martinez also revealed at his press conference today that centre-back John Stones could return from a three-week absence in Saturday's home match against Manchester United.
Pascal Lemesre
