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EVERTON plan to hold contract talks with Darron Gibson later this summer.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder has entered the final 12 months of his deal at Goodison Park after joining the club in January 2012.

Gibson missed the final games of last season after breaking his foot.

The 27-year-old had only returned to full fitness in February after a torrid time with injuries.

A career-threatening knee problem meant Gibson was out for over a year and though he played for the Blues in the early stages of last season, he continued to suffer complications.

But after coming on as a late substitute against Chelsea, Gibson put in a string of impressive displays throughout February and into March before damaging his foot the following month.

And despite Gibson’s chequered injury past, Everton are keen to sit down with the former Manchester United man and his representatives before the summer is out.

Darron Gibson is not injury prone

Roberto Martinez is hopeful that Gibson will be fit enough to return to the side for pre-season, with the Everton players returning to Finch Farm on Monday.

The Everton boss is still chasing a new centre-half and a playmaker and it is understood the club will look to thrash out a new deal for Gibson once the bulk of their transfer activity is complete.

Everton, meanwhile, are also increasingly hopeful of Chris Long signing a new deal.

The Academy striker, who spent a spell on loan at promotion chasing Brentford last season, is out of contract.

But the Blues are thought to be close to finalising a new deal for the 20-year-old from Huyton.