Steve Round admits Everton have missed the influence of Phil Neville in the early weeks of the season.
Skipper set to feature in cup against Brentford
Assistant manager Steve Round admits Everton have missed the influence of captain Phil Neville in the early weeks of the season.
The versatile Neville has not featured since the opening day defeat at Blackburn Rovers after picking up a foot injury.
He has been an unused substitute in the Toffees' last two games and is expected to start Tuesday's Carling Cup third round tie at Brentford.
Mikel Arteta has been captaining the team in Neville's absence and Round is looking forward to seeing the 33-year-old back in the side.
Terrific leader
Round said: "I can't speak highly enough of Phil. He is the guy that knits everything together - every team needs one.
"He leads not only on the field, but off it and having him around the place is fantastic for us.
"He is not only an exceptional player, but his leadership and experience is first rate.
"He is a terrific leader and has been a big miss, but Phil is now fully fit and available.
"I am sure it won't be too long before we see him back in the team and leading from the front."