Republic of Ireland midfielder Darron Gibson is back training with the Everton first team having missed the entire season following cruciate ligament surgery.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez explained: “Darron Gibson has been working with the team as well,” the latter sentiment a reference to the fact that another injury victim Stephen Pienaar could return for Sunday’s game against Hull City.

Martinez continued: “That is really good timing because he (Gibson) has been able to finish the season strong from his point of view.

“I don’t know if Darron will make it in time to be involved with the squad but it is a positive sign nonetheless.

“From that point of view it is the same squad that we had for Manchester City, apart from Ryan Ledson, who is going to join the England Under-17s setup at the European Championships where we wish him well.

“Steven (Pienaar) has been working with the team and that is very positive. We will assess him before Sunday to see whether he can play a part or not.