Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti is open to starting midfielder Andre Gomes against Arsenal on Sunday.
Gomes has not played for Everton since November after suffering an ankle injury in a 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspurs at Goodison Park.
His absence, along with injuries and suspensions to Fabian Delph, Morgan Schneiderlin and Gylfi Sigurdsson has left Everton short of midfield options at times.
The former FC Barcelona player returned to training last month and has been passed fit to play against the Gunners on Sunday.
Everton are two points ahead of Arsenal and both clubs are chasing European qualification.
‘’Andre is available to play. He trained well, properly, with confidence and without problems. ’Everton boss told a news conference.
‘’My opinion is he is ready to play. Before the game we are going to speak together and decide whether he can start the game or if he goes to the bench.
‘’We have very important games. Now we have to focus on Arsenal, then we have Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool. After we can see what is going on for Europe.
However, forward Theo Walcott is likely to miss the game against his former club through injury.
