Yakubu Nearing Full Fitness

Everton striker Aiyegbeni Yakubu is almost ready to make a full return to action, according to club physio Steve Round, and will give everyone at Goodison Park a massive boost when he does so.

The forward is with the Toffees on their pre-season tour of North America and has begun to take part in full training sessions as he continues his recovery from the ruptured Achilles he suffered in November.

‘The Yak’ is aiming to return to Premier League action in the early part of the season, and Round has revealed that seeing the striker participating in training again, along with several other players shaking off injuries, has given the squad a real fillip.

“It’s great to see Joseph Yobo, Jack Rodwell and Stephen Pienaar all back and looking in good condition – and also Yak,” the physio revealed to the club’s official website.

“It was the first day he’s trained with the team not fully, he’s done bits and bobs with the team, but it’s great to see him out on the field and it’s given everybody a lift for sure.

“When you’ve been out that long with a serious injury, it’s great to get back on the field with the lads. We saw a big smile on his face today.”

Everton’s played against Argentine giants River Plate at the weekend.