Everton boss Roberto Martinez is looking forward to having a fully-fit Darron Gibson at his disposal next season.

The Republic of Ireland international has been sidelined since October after suffering cruciate ligament damage on international duty eight months ago.

"Darron has been a big miss for us," the Spaniard told the Liverpool Echo. "He has not been forgotten internally.

"I know when you don't play as a player you get a little bit out of the limelight but I'm very excited about Darron's contribution next season.

"He is looking sharp. He wanted to be involved in the final game of the season, but we would have been taking a little bit of a risk to do that. But I'm pleased to say he will start pre-season in great condition and ready to fight."

David Moyes signed the midfielder for a fee in the region of £500,000 from Manchester United back in January 2012.