Gueye out, Robles to start for Everton at Stoke

Midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye is back with Everton, but returned too late from the Africa Cup of Nations to take part in Wednesday’s clash against Stoke City. Gueye played in four games for Senegal, who were favourites to win the competition but were knocked out on penalties by Cameroon in the quarter finals.

Speaking to the media, manager Ronald Koeman said he would be ready to play on Saturday when the Blues host AFC Bournemouth.

"Normally, he will be back (Tuesday). He will not be involved on Wednesday but for Saturday, yes.

“Gana has shown to be an important player, aggressive and winning second balls. We have good competition (in midfield) but I am happy to have him back."

The Dutchman also added that Joel Robles would retain his spot in goal despite Maarten Stekelenburg regaining full fitness.

"Joel is doing well and there's no reason at the moment to change it.

"He gave that competition (to Maarten) after a disappointing period from the summer because Maarten was the goalkeeper who played from the beginning."

Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Muhamed Besic are not expected back until the end of February, while Yannick Bolasie is out for the rest of the season.

For Stoke City who are sitting in tenth in the table, Mark Hughes will be excited to have new signing Saido Berahino. The forward is not fully match-fit however and will likely not play ninety minutes.

Midfielder Ramadan Sobhi is still at the Africa Cup of Nations while forwards Wilfried Bony and Mame Biram Diouf have returned and it is unclear if they will be involved today.

Geoff Cameron and Jack Butland are out till the end of the month and Stephen Ireland is still recovering from a broken leg. Everton fan Jonathan Walters had knee surgery recently and is out indefinitely.