Everton have confirmed that midfielder Darron Gibson is close to making his return after six months on the sidelines.

The Irish international has been unable to play for his club since damaging knee ligaments while on international duty last October.

But Toffees manager Roberto Martinez says Gibson is close to making a return to group training...

Gibson became a key player for his club last season and had just marked his return to the Ireland fold following Giovanni Trapattoni's departure when injury struck.

Last night Dan McDonnell discussed the Irish contingent at Everton on the Off The Ball Football Show which you can listen to here.