The Nigerian striker ruptured his Achilles against Tottenham Hotspur last November and has since undergone a strict rehabilitation programme.

After responding well to treatment he has set his sights on the Toffees' Barclays Premier League match with the Gunners on 15th August as his return date.

The £11.25m signing is also preparing to travel with the rest of the squad to America to take part in the club's pre-season tour.

"I'm getting better and training every day with the physio who is so wonderful to me," he told the club's official website.

"At the moment it is good and there is no reaction and hopefully I will join them in pre-season, which is good news.

"For almost eight months I haven't been playing football but at the moment it's great. I don't know but I think at the beginning of the season I'll be ready."

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