Arteta can see return on horizon

Everton's hopes of qualifying for Europe this season could be buoyed by the news that influential midfielder Mikel Arteta is on his way back from injury.

The Spaniard has been out of action for ten months after an injury to his knee ligament, but has said he is looking to get back into action and can see an end to his injury nightmare.



Arteta told the Liverpool Echo that he is now starting to train with the rest of the Everton squad and is able to work and run at a "good rhythm" without experiencing pain in his knee.



This means it's looking a good football bet that he'll be back in action within the next two months, the Spaniard revealed.



"It has been hell. I would spend eight to 10 hours a day just dedicated to recuperating. I was obsessed," said Arteta.



"But now, fortunately, I can say that everything is going well and all I want is to be with my team-mates and help the team."



Everton currently sit in 11th place in the Premier League but there are tough games on the horizon against top four-chasing Arsenal and Manchester City.



They were recently given a boost by the news that USA captain Landon Donovan has been granted a work permit so he can join Everton from Los Angeles Galaxy on a two-and-a-half-month loan deal on January 2nd.