Romelu Lukaku scored the winner on his return from a month on the sidelines as Everton edged out West Ham United at Upton Park in the Premier League this afternoon.

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In the opening half, hosts Everton had plenty of the ball but were unable to really break down West Ham's stubborn defence.

Steven Naismith spurned the best chance the hosts had before half time by firing straight at West Ham keeper Adrian at the near post from the left side of the penalty area.

Barcelona loanee Gerard Deulofeu nearly produced a goal out of nothing when he danced his way into the area before curling an effort inches wide of the far post.

The Toffees then came close moments after the break when Leighton Baines squared for Steven Pienaar, whose shot came back off the foot of the post, and Deulofeu failed to tuck home from the rebound.

Soon after Tim Howard had his first proper save to make when substitute Andy Carroll fired at goal from distance.

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A minute later Howard could do nothing as Kevin Nolan capitalised on a slip from John Stones, but he could only curl his shot just past the post.

Lukaku was brought on just before the hour mark and found the net nine minutes from time by stroking home Baines's cutback.

Three points take Everton back up into sixth place above Manchester United.