James McCarthy played his first game of football since last January for the Everton Under-23s as the Republic of Ireland midfielder took a huge step forward in his recovery from a leg break.
McCarthy played the full 90 minutes of the Toffees 1-0 win against Manchester City, turning in a committed and energetic display in the middle of the park.
He suffered a dreadful double fracture after a challenge from Salomon Rondon in the 1-1 draw against West Brom over nine months ago.
He came through his first test with flying colours however, and will now hope to follow in the footsteps of Seamus Coleman who also overcame a horrendous break to return to action with Everton and Ireland.
"Obviously Seamie had been there and done it," McCarthy said last week.
"When I got into the tunnel [after the injury] I looked up and he was there which was great. We're best mates in football.
"He was telling me not to worry, saying I'll get through it and come back stronger. The next day he came back up when I was in hospital which was really good of him.
"I've asked him if he felt wee niggles and he's been brilliant telling me not to worry. It's good to bounce off him if anything is niggling or anything."
