Carlo Ancelotti says it was "absolutely normal" that Andre Gomes lacked intensity on his first start since an ankle injury.
Gomes was named in the starting line-up for the first time since November 3 when he suffered a fracture dislocation of his right ankle.
The 26-year-old made a 30 minute cameo against Arsenal last weekend but was named in the XI for yesterday's game with Manchester United - and lasted the majority of the game.
Gomes was replaced with seven minutes to go and though Ancelotti was pleased with how he performed, he expects the full tempo of the midfielder's game will return in time.
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"Andre Gomes did a good performance," Ancelotti said.
"He didn’t show a lot of intensity but that is absolutely normal.
"He will improve step by step, game by game."
The Everton manager says the club will have to wait to learn the full extent of Seamus Coleman's thigh issue after he was forced off after less than half an hour.
"Coleman has a muscle injury," he confirmed.
"We will see in the next few days. The others - no problem."
