Distin could return for Toffees

Sylvain Distin could be in line for a return to action against one of his former teams tomorrow when Everton host Manchester City in the Premier League.

The Toffees defender has not played since early December but is nearing a full recovery from his hamstring problem.

Manager David Moyes has confirmed Lucas Neill is available to play against City before his proposed move to Galatasaray.

Victor Anichebe, Mikel Arteta, Tony Hibbert, Phil Jagielka, Jack Rodwell and Dan Gosling are all injured, while Ayegbeni Yakubu and Joseph Yobo are at the African Nations Cup.

It is understood Brazilian striker Jo will not feature in the squad following his suspension for a breach of discipline.

Provisional squad: Howard, Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Neill, Bilyaletdinov, Vaughan, Cahill, Neville, Fellaini, Pienaar, Osman, Donovan, Nash, Baxter, Agard, Coleman, Duffy.