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Leighton Baines returns for Everton after three-month lay-off

Leighton Baines - Masterclass
Image: Leighton Baines closing on a return to the first team

Everton defender Leighton Baines is in the squad for Saturday's trip to Bournemouth following his long term injury.

The 30-year-old damaged his ankle injury in August while training in the season-opener against Watford and has not featured in the Premier League this season.

Having successfully come through training since surgery on the same ankle for the second time in three months, the England star will be available for selection at the weekend, although a decision on whether he will play will be taken on Friday.

Toffees Boss Roberto Martinez said: "Leighton Baines is physically ready. It is just making sure he is given the right introduction to get that match fitness. Most important is getting his confidence back. We need to be very careful. We will take it day by day.

"He needs to be able to go into a 50/50 challenge without feeling fearful. When you get an injury like his where he was just blocking a simple ball in a good position, we need to get his confidence back and prepare his body to be strong.

"It's great to see him back in training and the quality he brings - it's impressive. We have players coming back and you want situations where you have to make decisions about who to pick. 

"Every player wants to play and be part of a winning team. Our good form comes from competition for places.

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"We have 18 weeks where we can concentrate on domestic football. We want to see how far we can take ourselves and the victory against Aston Villa was a good start."

Leighton Baines for Everton
Image: Baines has been out since injuring his ankle in August

Everton, seventh in the Premier League, head to the south coast club who have not won in the Premier League since September 19.

Martinez added: "Bournemouth have a clear understanding of what they want to do. There are reasons why they haven't replicated their early form.

"When you have two or three players out long-term it has an impact. Nevertheless, it will be a test for us."   

Spanish playmaker Gerard Deulofeu impressed during Everton's 4-0 demolition of Aston Villa last Saturday and is pushing hard for a starting spot.

"We all know the incredible world class talent Gerard has," Martinez added. "He looks free and happy, and has a connection with the fans."

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