Carlo Ancelotti has given the latest update on the condition of Andre Gomes as the midfielder continues his rehabilitation from injury.
The Portugal international suffered a fracture dislocation of his right ankle in the 1-1 draw with Spurs at Goodison Park last year, and it was initially feared he could miss the remainder of the current campaign.
However, the recovery of the 26-year-old since that point has been remarkable.
Gomes recently returned to Finch Farm and, earlier this week, he took part in training with his teammates for the first time since suffering his injury in November.
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And Ancelotti is of the belief that the midfielder can "recover soon" from his issue and he is backing the former Barcelona man to be an important player when he does return to the Everton side.
The manager told evertonfc.com: "He is a humble guy and he really likes to play.
"For a player who is out for three months like him it is important to try to start with the team. He was really happy this week.
"In training, he is confident, he has no problem, he tries to do everything.
"I think he can recover soon.
"It is really important [for Gomes to be progressing in his rehabilitation] because first of all he is a player with fantastic quality. He has experience and has played for fantastic teams like Valencia and Barcelona.
"He can give us his experience and quality."
