Everton pair John Stones, Tim Howard expected to be fit for weekend action

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has revealed that both John Stones and Tim Howard are likely to be fit for this weekend's Premier League match against West Bromwich Albion.

Howard has been struggling with a knee injury, while Stones has been absent from the defence due to a hamstring problem.

Both players have missed Everton's last two games, which both ended in convincing 3-0 victories.

"Yesterday we had a very productive day in respect [of injuries]," Martinez told the club's official website. "John had a really good feeling after his work and we are hoping that he can join the group this week leading up to the West Brom game.

"Tim Howard is very similar. He had a very good session on a one-to-one basis. We knew that they were problems that could be managed and treated in a short-term and conservative manner. We are very pleased with how their bodies have reacted.

"Now it's about taking it step-by-step, introducing them to the group and seeing how they react. Hopefully they will be available for the West Brom game, if not at the maximum Bournemouth."

Meanwhile, Muhamed Besic will not be included in the squad this weekend as his hamstring problem persists.