Darron Gibson is expected to make his return from injury following nine months on the sidelines

The midfielder should take some part in Everton's pre-season friendly at Tranmere tonight.

Gibson suffered an anterior cruciate injury in the Republic of Ireland's 3-1 win over Kazakhstan last October, ruling him out of Martin O'Neill's plans until now.

However, his return will be a boost for club and country, having impressed in his first season at Everton.