Former Everton wing-back Bryan Oviedo is backing Andre Gomes to make a full recovery after ankle surgery.

The midfielder is expected to be back before the end of the season having a horror injury suffered against Tottenham.

Oviedo told the club's website: "The fans will help Andre a lot. They were always supporting me, sending me letters and presents and saying they were looking forward to me being back.

"Their positive words meant a lot. Your teammates are important, too.

"You feel alone sometimes, you go to training and think, 'Why did this happen to me'.

"Then someone comes to you and says, 'Don't worry, stay strong'.

"It is a process and at the end you will be fine. I had a few periods during my recovery when I did not feel good but after a while I was back to normal.

"You can be even better after a serious injury, if your mindset is right and you are determined.

"I enjoy playing more than ever now. You appreciate football even more after so long not being able to play.

"It is a difficult time and when you come back and can run and play again, it feels fantastic. I am sure it will be the same for Andre."