Everton boss Roberto Martinez admits Darron Gibson's season is over.

The injury is another setback for the Republic of Ireland international, who has made just 14 appearances this campaign after returning in September from a knee ligament operation which kept him out for a year.

"Darron doesn't need surgery so I think we will take conservative treatment, which is good news with that sort of injury," said the Toffees boss.

"I don't think we are going to see Darron this season. I am not worried about that, my only focus is he can recover 100 per cent and can get back with no worries of needing extra surgery at the end of it.

"It is a tricky injury because you have a little bit of a concern that if you don't heal the injury properly it could come back, and that is an area which is very weak on the foot as the whole force of the body goes into that area.

"If he can come back in pre-season and be fully-fit for the next campaign I would be delighted.

"It is a massive blow. As a footballer, the biggest moments you need to get through are when you are injured and because there is nothing you can do about it.

"Darron has been through that for a long time and has been unfortunate.

"At least he can have that calm feeling he has shown his worth and that at least gives you some reassurance.

"But it is tough. I am not going to deny it when you have been out so long and just get your place in the team and you get an injury like that it is devastating.

"Probably he will be back quicker than we expected and with not much to be worried about."