Some injury issues are still to be resolved as Martin O’Neill’s squad enjoy one last weekend pass off base before the Republic’s June 13 D-Day in France, but there was encouragement yesterday in the sight of James McCarthy training with the group for a second day in a row.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has hit back at what he feels has been some "cheap talk" about his players’ efforts of late.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez was pleased to see striker Romelu Lukaku shouldering some responsibility in the 1-1 FA Cup draw at home to West Ham.

Everton 2 West Ham 1

Everton defender Leighton Baines admitted a clean sheet was almost as important as their first home Barclays Premier League win of the season after a catalogue of defensive errors left the players scratching their heads.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez admits they cannot afford to give out-of-form striker Romelu Lukaku a much-needed rest.

Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar has been ruled out of Saturday’s meeting with Chelsea, but the outlook is better for Romelu Lukaku.

Everton may have smashed their transfer record to sign striker Romelu Lukaku but manager Roberto Martinez insists the fee is irrelevant if the player fulfils his potential.

Everton last night finally signed Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku for a club-record fee of £28million (€35m).

Striker Romelu Lukaku could be on his way back to Everton as he looks for a way out of Chelsea.

Everton and Ireland defender Seamus Coleman admits the desire to end the club’s trophy drought is driving on the dressing room.

Shane Long has pledged his future to West Brom for next season – and hopes he can continue his successful partnership with on-loan Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku.

Defender Steven Reid hopes West Brom can retain on-loan striker Romelu Lukaku for another season – after admitting to being surprised at how good he is.