Yannick Bolasie is hoping to receive the best Christmas present by returning to first-team action around the festive period.
The 28-year-old has been sidelined since suffering a serious knee injury against Manchester United in December and has undergone two operations since then to correct the problem.
It was initially feared the Everton winger, who joined in a £25m deal from Crystal Palace last summer, would be sidelined until 2018 but he is now focused on providing Ronald Koeman’s side with a boost before the end of the year.
“Getting back in December would be the best Christmas present,” he told Sky Sports. “A player like me always wants to be on the pitch.
“Strangely, I think that having this injury will give me the composure that I have been looking for.
“I know that will take my game to another level. I am going to be subconsciously more cautious with any sharp movements, but that should improve my game massively.
“My old managers Alan Pardew and Tony Pulis always felt I would gain more composure with age. Now I have had this injury, I think it will come, but I don’t think I will lose my pace or my sprinting – and I feel strong already.”
Bolasie scored or assisted five goals 13 league appearances before injury ruled him out for the rest of the season last Christmas and his return will almost feel like a new signing for Koeman’s side.
The Toffees have already been active in the transfer market by bringing in Jordan Pickford and Davy Klaassen for a combined worth of more than £45m and Bolasie’s return will only improve their offensive options.
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