Everton boss David Moyes admits he's been astonished by the influence of skipper Phil Neville during his time out with injury.

Midfielder Neville hasn't kicked a ball for two months.

But Moyes says: "It's hard to put into adequate words how good Phil has been during the time he has been out injured.

"He's at the away games, on the touchline with them all, he's in the dressing room before and after and at half-time motivating and giving them advice.

"He is showing exactly what we know about him, he's a right good character and is in it for the team and not just for himself."

Moyes added: "He is about everybody succeeding. He is part of a great core to this club.

"That includes Phil, Mikel Arteta, Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines, Tim Cahill and Leon Osman.

"They have been the key to this side for so long, and we have been without most of them for long spells with some still out.

"People like Phil are still trying to be an influence, and it is pleasing for me for them to be so involved."