This Saturday's trip to Fulham could see the return of one of Everton's key players. After more than two weeks of training, Darron Gibson is edging ever closer to a first team return. David Moyes will confirm during Friday's press conference whether Gibson is fit or not. The majority of Evertonians will hope he can feature with the Republic of Ireland midfielder proving a lucky charm.

Since his arrival, Gibson is yet to lose a league game. Although he started the West Brom defeat, Gibson withdrew injured after 20 minutes with the score at 0-0. Upon closer inspection, Gibson's run is quite remarkable with the midfielder also unbeaten in his last 15 league outings at Manchester United - stretching the streak to 30 league games.

When Everton signed Gibson, a number of fans turned their nose up, The return of Paul Scholes ahead of Gibson spoke volumes for some Everton fans. Many were of the train of thought that, if a 37-year-old can keep him out the side, he cannot be any good. Thankfully, that is not the case and, for the record, Scholes would leave many central midfielders warming the bench in his place.

Arriving last January, Gibson has firmly cemented his place in the Everton midfield. Used alongside Marouane Fellaini last season, he began to forge a partnership with Leon Osman prior to his injury. With Fellaini and Osman better when given the licence to push forward, Gibson provides the defensive cover.

Positionally astute, Gibson adds much-needed steel to an Everton midfield that can look lightweight in his absence. In recent weeks, Nikica Jelavic has found himself isolated with Fellaini required to drop deep to help Neville and Osman. The return of Gibson will strengthen the midfield and allow Fellaini to concentrate on supporting Jelavic.

Strong defensively, the Irish midfielder also improves Everton in attack. Providing the link between defence and the forward line, Gibson is the platform from which Everton start their attacking play. His confidence on the ball goes hand-in-hand with his wide range of passing. Able to switch the path of attack, quickly and accurately, he adds another dimension to Everton's football.

Assured in possession, strong in the tackle and with sound positional sense, it is easy to see why Everton have missed Gibson since his injury. Defensively shaky in his absence, the main benefactor from his return will be the Everton back four. So far, Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka are yet to settle into a true level of consistency but the presence of Gibson will aid that process.

Whilst the midfielder may not make this weekend's trip to Fulham, his impending return is good news for all concerned. Having drawn their last three matches, Everton will look to get back to winnings ways at Craven Cottage. However, that is no easy task against a free-scoring Fulham side. The return of Steven Pienaar will improve Everton's chances of victory but the player Everton need most is Gibson.

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