Lucas Digne is set to make his Everton comeback against Rotherham United.
Digne has been absent for Carlo Ancelotti’s side since late November, when he suffered an ankle injury in training that sidelined him for six weeks.
The France international was expected to be available for selection again later this month but is now in contention for Saturday’s FA Cup tie with Rotherham.
Ancelotti confirmed Digne’s involvement against the Championship outfit and admitted he has been taken aback by the left-back’s speed of recovery.
“He is fit,” said the Everton manager.
“His recovery was really fast, he and the medical staff did a fantastic job.
“He trained all week with us and is fit, in good condition and can play tomorrow. We know Digne is a top professional.
“I think the surgeon was good, the rehab was really good and so it was unbelievable to see Digne so early in training.”
Digne, 27, is also on the verge of agreeing a new long-term contract at Goodison Park with Ancelotti hopeful of confirmation in the near future.
He added: “I think it is almost done.
“I am not involved in this but the two parts – the club and him – are really close.
“It is important to have an important player with personality, quality and talent with us for the future.”
The Italian will rest several first-team players for the Rotherham game with Richarlison, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jordan Pickford among those omitted.