Everton's Irish close to return from injury

Everton have been given a major boost ahead of next week’s crucial Capital One Cup semi-final second leg at Manchester City with midfielder James McCarthy and defender Seamus Coleman likely to be fit.

McCarthy has played just once in the last eight weeks because of a groin problem while Coleman was injured in the first leg on January 6 and was expected to be out for three to four weeks.

“James McCarthy and Seamus Coleman are both progressing really well and I expect those two to be back in the squad after this full week,” said manager Roberto Martinez.