Gibson set for Everton return

Everton manager Roberto Martinez is ready to put faith in his squad as he plans to rotate players for tonight’s Capital One Cup tie at Fulham (kick-off 8pm).

However, the Spaniard will not be fielding a second-string side as Craven Cottage as it is likely Irish midfielder Darron Gibson will make his long-awaited return from injury.

Martinez also insists loan-signing Romelu Lukaku is fully fit after a head injury and is raring to go again after scoring in the 3-2 win at West Ham.

Martinez believes the fact they are facing fellow Premier League opposition makes it slightly easier in terms of preparation but he will be resting some of his more important players regardless, despite there being almost a week until their next league match on Monday.

“It is good we have extra time to recover from the league game but it is more from the West Ham game to the cup game that we have to take into consideration how players are,” he said.

“I’m quite pleased we have an extra few days to recover for the Newcastle game but clearly this squad for the Carling Cup game will be based on efforts of the previous two games.

“I think every game that you play in an official manner is an important game but what is important is that we understand we have to share the demands within the squad and I do feel this squad is ready to cope with that.”

Gibson’s return will also be a welcome one for Martinez as it increases options in central midfield.

“Darron I consider fully fit,” said the Toffees boss. “He has been working extremely well and has joined the group so that is a great positive for us.”

Fulham boss Martin Jol, meanwhile, is seeking a morale-boosting win against the Toffees.

The Cottagers will bid to respond from Saturday’s 2-0 derby loss at Chelsea by ending a six-match winless run at home. “We need a win,” said Jol. “It’s good for the spirit of the team if we get back to winning games.”