DARRON GIBSON MAKES his first start of the season for Everton tonight as they host Norwich in the Capital One fourth round clash at Goodison Park.
The Republic of Ireland midfielder has been on the fringes of first-team football over the last number of weeks and did make a twenty-minute cameo for the Toffees in their 3-2 win over West Brom at the end of September.
But this evening represents a significant step for the 28-year-old who has been out with stomach and hernia problems since March.
His injury record over the last two seasons was described as โworryingโ by Irish boss Martin OโNeill but his inclusion in Evertonโs starting lineup for the clash with the Canaries bodes well for the upcoming Euro 2016 play-off against Bosnia.
Gibson hasnโt played a minute for his national team since starting in the 1-0 loss to Scotland almost twelve months ago.
He plays alongside international team-mate James McCarthy tonight.
hopefully heโs sober
Jesus lads go easy on the positivity. Personally I think itโs great to see him back, hopefully stays fit and can contribute to the Irish team too.
How have Everton not left him go?
He is probably a qualified doctor at this stage, the amount of time he has spent in the treatment room.
because heโs one of their best midfielders when fit
Because whenever heโs actually played heโs done fantastic.
and he also has a contract and itโs hard to sell injured players.
He was bad last nightโฆ gareth barry looks to have more spring in his step these daysโฆ. injuries seem to have taken their toll on gibson, he is too one paced and canโt get around the pitch when he does manage to make rare appearances these days
Glass Knees Gibson.
When youโre up in row Z and the ball hits your head its โฆ