Everton’s Leighton Baines is happy with the progress he has made since his ankle surgery and is looking forward to being a major force for the Toffees next season.

Baines, who arrived at Goodison Park last summer, has had a tough time at the club as he was constantly plagued by injuries. He managed just 22 appearances for the side before going under the knife.

"I'm a couple of weeks down the line since the surgery so I'm just coming in and starting my rehab," the defender told Sky Sports News.

"I'm getting the movement back in my ankle and hopefully over the next couple of weeks I can progress a little bit further.

"It's something that has been hampering me for a while. Even though I was available for a lot of games it was still causing me a bit of trouble so it is nice to get it done and hopefully get back fully fit."

The former Wigan man is aware of the tough competition he will have to face to get himself a regular spot in the team but he claims that he is up for the challenge.

He said: "I played probably more games than people might think, but it would be nice to hopefully get back fully fit and be considered more often."