Everton boss Roberto Martinez has revealed that Phil Jagielka will soon hand the side a major boost.
The Toffees captain has been sidelined with a knee injury since late October but according to the manager, is pushing for a return to action in the coming weeks.
"Jags has been back running on the grass, which is always a very good sign," Martinez.
"The next step is to involve him in more football, and the way Jags is, I feel we'll see him back available very, very soon."
Jagielka has missed Everton's past six Premier League outings during which time the team has remained unbeaten but have conceded eight goals, keeping just one clean sheet.