When Andre Gomes went down after a challenge from Tottenham's Heung-min Son, the emotional reaction of several players on the pitch at Goodison Park seemed to suggest that this was one of those awful career-threatening injuries.

The Portugal international's pained expression did little to hide just how severe the problem was, and there may have been some major concerns within Everton about whether he would take to the field at all this season.

But in some superb news for everyone connected with the Merseyside club, Gomes played the full 60 minutes in a behind-closed-doors friendly earlier in the week.

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And in a further boost, manager Carlo Ancelotti opened the door for him to play a part against Arsenal this weekend, even going so far as to suggesting: "When a player has been out for a long period, I think it is better to start the game. He can prepare properly, (rather) than to put him on from the bench."

Whilst the midfielder may not be fully match-fit, Ancelotti should seriously consider throwing him into the deep end against Arsenal on Sunday afternoon.

Heading into the dressing room at the Emirates, Everton's players will receive an enormous psychological boost seeing their teammate sitting alongside them as they get ready to go out on to the pitch.

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The Toffees squad will feel an innate sense of responsibility to make sure they perform at their very best, and that could inspire an impressive performance against the Gunners.

Ancelotti can make it clear how Gomes has defied the odds to be there, and it's up to the rest of team to buy into that 'never-say-die' mentality. It'll get the temperature rising, and generate a sense of passion and excitement that should ensure they get off to a fast start away from home.

Half the battle can often be won in the dressing room. Starting Gomes could be the surprising key to victory for Everton on Sunday.

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