The Australian midfielder is progressing well after returning to full training last week and although he is not expected back in match action for a few weeks, Moyes knows Cahill will provide a major boost when he does take to the field again.

He told the Everton official web site: "Tim has started training again and we are glad to have him back with us.

"We have missed him a great deal since he has been out. We have followed instructions from his surgeon and the early signs we have seen from Tim are good.

"He looks really sharp and fit and he's obviously looked after himself during the time he was out.

mental barrier

"I don't know when he'll be available again but he's coming along nicely just now. The one thing we won't do, though, is take any risks with him.

"We have missed him since March and though we did OK without him towards the end of last season, of course we needed him.

"I'm sure there will be a mental barrier for him to overcome when he gets back because he has suffered the injury three times.

"But he's had three-and-a-half months since the operation and he is looking better and better. Of course we are going to be careful with him but when he's ready, we will be playing him and we can't wait to get him back."

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