Dominic Calvert-Lewin could be back for Everton as early as next weekend, although Sean Dyche remains wary of overextending the England striker.
Calvert-Lewin's season has been interrupted by injuries and he has been sidelined since Everton's win over Arsenal in early February - the first game of Dyche's reign - with a hamstring problem.
Being unable to have Calvert-Lewin firing on all cylinders has contributed to Everton's struggles this season as, with 24 goals in 31 matches, they are the joint-lowest scorers in the Premier League.
While optimistic of Calvert-Lewin returning to the matchday squad when Everton visit Crystal Palace next Saturday, Dyche was issuing no guarantees after Saturday's deflating 3-1 loss against Fulham.