Carlo Ancelotti says Andre Gomes remains on target to return to first-team action against Arsenal on Sunday 23 February and revealed the Portuguese will feature in a friendly game one week before that clash as he bids to regain match fitness.
The Italian added he is hopeful Jean-Philippe Gbamin will be available before the end of the season after undergoing a further procedure on his quadriceps.
Midfielder Gomes returned to first-team training last week as he steps up his rehabilitation from ankle surgery.
After Everton face Crystal Palace at Goodison Park on Saturday (12.30pm), the Blues have a two-week Premier League break before taking on Arsenal. Ancelotti explained how Gomes is set to feature in a behind-closed-doors game on Sunday 16 February as he eyes a return to the matchday squad at Emirates Stadium.
"With Gomes, we are going to organise a friendly game [during the break]," he said. "Everything is okay with him.
"The plan for Gbamin is [to return] eight weeks after the surgery.
"The surgery went well and now he is doing individual treatment.
"With him, we have to go slowly because the injury was big. Step by step, we will see how he is going. Of course, we hope to recover him before the end of the season."
Ancelotti also looked ahead to Sunday's historic women's Merseyside derby, when Goodison Park will host a WSL clash between Everton and Liverpool for the first time (kick-off 2pm).
>>>CLICK HERE TO SECURE YOUR SEAT FOR THE WOMEN'S MERSEYSIDE DERBY AT GOODISON<<<
This video is for Season Ticket Holders, Official Members and Hospitality Members
If you already have an Official Membership or 22/23 Season Ticket, just login to watch the video.
If you are interested in an Official membership, you can find out how to buy one here.
Also check out our streaming FAQs.
This content or section of the site is available for free to Digital Members
To view this content you need to be a Season Ticket Holder, Hospitality Member or Official Member.
As well as access to live pre-season matches, Official Members receive a range of other benefits, including exclusive content and welcome pack.
MORE INFO - BUY A MEMBERSHIP - STREAMING FAQs
Ancelotti, who recently took in an Everton Women's training session at USM Finch Farm and gave the Toffees players a pep talk, urged supporters to back Willie Kirk's team in numbers at the Grand Old Lady
“It will be fantastic," Ancelotti said. "I saw them training last week.
“They are fit and ready and, with the support of our fans, I’m sure they can win.”
>>>CLICK HERE TO SECURE YOUR SEAT FOR THE WOMEN'S MERSEYSIDE DERBY AT GOODISON<<<
You can show your support for Everton Women by securing your seat for the Merseyside derby now.
The Club's ongoing commitment to allowing Season Ticket, Lounge and Official Members free access to women’s games will continue for the fixture, although all Members will be required to claim a ticket and select their seat in advance.
Tickets are otherwise £6 for adults and £3 for over-65s and juniors, with a £10 premium ticket also on offer.
For full ticket information or to buy or claim a ticket, click here.
