Tuesday 6 March 2018 08:07, UK
Everton defender Ramiro Funes Mori is back from a long-term knee injury and is looking to head straight back into the starting XI.
Argentina international Funes Mori made his comeback for the Toffees in recent weeks and turned out on Monday night for the U23s during a convincing 2-0 victory over Swansea.
Funes Mori's return, on his 27th birthday, was his first competitive appearance since featuring against Hull in March 2017 before undertaking knee surgery.
Getting back on the pitch has left the defender keen to resume Premier League action.
"I've been training good these past weeks," he told Everton's club website.
"Even though I wasn't playing for the first team, I've been playing for the Under-23s to get the rhythm, get the tempo. I'm 100 percent fit to play and I'm ready for Saturday."
Everton will welcome Brighton and Hove Albion to Goodison Park on Saturday in a crunch fixture which could see either side make a big stride to cementing a position in the top 10.
The two clubs are locked on 34 points - seven clear of the relegation zone - though Brighton currently occupy 10th position through goal difference.
Funes Mori is hoping a swift return to the Everton side could also secure his chances of a World Cup place, after being called up for Argentina's upcoming friendly fixtures.
"I'm very satisfied that the manager (Jorge Sampaoli) has called me even though I haven't played for the first team," Funes Mori added.
"But I'm fit, I'm ready to play. I'm feeling good hopefully I get my chance and go on from there."
