Gareth Barry

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has confirmed that midfielder Gareth Barry is likely to be in the starting line-up for the match against Swansea during the weekend. He has recovered sufficiently from the ankle injury that kept him out of finishing the 2-1 win over Cardiff. Barry has been an important player for Everton since coming from Manchester city on a loan deal. Everton are believed to be looking at the prospect of keeping him on a permanent basis. A number of loan players have been the key towards Everton challenging for a top four this season.

It was initially thought that Barry would be unavailable for a number of matches between now and the end of the season, but Everton have received a major boost with the news that he could be available as early as this weekend. Martinez said that this is a highly unfortunate news for Everton. The 31-year-old could cost in the region of £ 6-£ 8 million if Everton wish to sign him permanently in the summer. They tried to sign him on a permanent basis for around £ 1 million, but city were not prepared to allow this deal to happen in the January transfer window.

Everton are sixth in the table still with an opportunity to finish in the top four.

"We've been very fortunate. It was a strong knock but he was caught in a position that has allowed him to recover quickly. It was painful and he has got stud marks but it didn't affect any joints. The ankle and the knee are in perfect condition so luckily enough on this occasion Gareth is fine and today he will train as normal," said the Everton manager, who has so far done a stellar work since replacing David Moyes in the summer. He will be coming up against his former club Swansea this weekend.