XAVIER BAN REDUCED, BUT NEW SURGERY NEEDED

The 27-year-old former Benfica ace was delighted with the news of his hearing from Lausanne, after failing with two previous attempts to overturn the decision.

Xavier had been banned following his sending off and subsequent actions in the European Championships semi-final defeat to France.

"I am delighted with the outcome of the hearing," he told the Everton website moments after hearing the news. "I always felt I was right over the incident and this has proved that I was right. I am also delighted for the club as well."

However, it was also confirmed by Toffees boss Walter Smith that the Portuguese ace would be ruled out of action for at least a month, after suffering a recurrence of the knee injury that has kept him out for the majority of the season so far.

"Abel's had a reoccurrence of the knee injury that's kept him out for most of the season," said Smith. "Unfortunately, an operation will be required which will take place on Friday and he will be out for about a month."

"It's obviously a big blow to us to lose Abel again - we just hope that this time, when he has had the operation, it clears up the problem."

The news of Xavier`s suspension being reduced is sure to alert a number of clubs in Portugal, who have been eyeing the international defender over recent months, although the latest injury setback will deter any bids for the time-being.