Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia is set to be restored to the side after sitting out the FA Cup fourth-round tie at Cardiff, while fit-again centre-back William Gallas is pressing for a place in the starting XI.

Mikael Silvestre (thigh) is still out, while striker Eduardo continues to build up his match-fitness. Theo Walcott (shoulder), captain Cesc Fabregas (knee) and Tomas Rosicky (hamstring tendon) remain sidelined.

Mikel Arteta is "50-50" for Everton, according to manager David Moyes.

The Spanish playmaker is still struggling with the rib injury which counted him out of Sunday's FA Cup 1-1 draw with Liverpool and he could miss his first league game of the season.

However, it is not all bad news for Everton as Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini is eligible to play after serving the two-match ban he received for picking up 10 bookings this term.