Martinez waits on Gibson

Everton boss Roberto Martinez is keeping his fingers crossed that Republic of Ireland midfielder Darron Gibson will be available for tomorrow’s Barclays Premier League opener against Norwich at Carrow Road.

Gibson strained a knee ligament in the friendly against Real Betis last Sunday and is rated 50/50.

Full-back Tony Hibbert (calf) should return to training on Monday while Martinez hopes defender Antolin Alcaraz (hamstring) will be fit before the end of the month. Winger Magaye Gueye is also out.

Provisional squad: Howard, Robles, Coleman, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Mirallas, Gibson, Osman, Pienaar, Anichebe, Fellaini, Heitinga, Oviedo, Naismith, Barkley, Jelavic, Deulofeu, Kone, Stones, Vellios.