Everton midfielder Andre Gomes could return to action this weekend following a horror injury if manager Carlo Ancelotti decides Sunday’s Premier League clash with Arsenal is the “right moment” for his comeback.

The 26-year-old Portuguese sustained a fracture dislocation of his right ankle while playing against Tottenham on November 3 but has returned to training and played an hour of a behind-closed-doors friendly at Everton’s Finch Farm training base last weekend.

Boss Ancelotti is now considering the former Barcelona player for a starting role at the Emirates Stadium this weekend.

The Italian told evertontv: “He did well (in the practice match), he played comfortably and without any problems and he is available, in my opinion, to play.

“Of course, I have to speak to him about how he feels after playing his first game following a long time out.

“My personal opinion is he is ready to play.

“When a player has been out for a long period, I think it is better to start the game. He can prepare properly, (rather) than to put him on from the bench.

“But I have to speak to him and together we can find a solution.”