Jean-Philippe Gbamin is steadily increasing his training load at USM Finch Farm, as the Everton midfielder continues to rehabilitate from a long-term Achilles problem.

Ivorian Gbamin participated in drills with teammates this week after recently introducing ball work and running into a recovery programme that began soon after the player was hurt in May last year.

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Manager Carlo Ancelotti hopes to welcome back the 25-year-old before the end of this campaign, with Everton's fight for European football set to resume when Crystal Palace visit Goodison Park on Monday 5 April.

Ancelotti has cautioned, nonetheless, that the former Mainz player's long-term availability will be the priority consideration when deciding a return date.

Click on the gallery below or here for images of Gbamin training with his Everton teammates.