Cahill back but Everton lose Yobo

Tim Cahill will return to Everton’s starting line-up at Portsmouth on Saturday but the injury jinx that has blighted the Toffees season has struck again, sidelining centreback Joseph Yobo.

The Nigerian defender suffered a hamstring injury in training this week and now faces a battle to recover in time for the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United at Wembley on April 19.

Cahill had to be substituted at half-time in last weekend’s win over Stoke after straining a calf but the injury has not proved as serious as first feared and the Australian has returned to full training, the club confirmed on Friday.

Everton manager David Moyes has spent most of the season grappling with injuries to key players and the loss of Yobo represents another headache.

Phil Jagielka can provide experienced cover but he has been filling in for another injured player, right-back Tony Hibbert, so Moyes could be forced to redeploy club captain Phil Neville from midfield to shore up his back four.

Injury has deprived Everton of three first-team regulars – Victor Anichebe, Aiyegbeni Yakubu and Mikel Arteta – until the end of the season.

Despite their problems, Everton have not given up hope of a top four finish and a place in next season’s Champions League with the win over Stoke leaving them just four points adrift of Arsenal and Aston Villa.

Portsmouth, in contrast, are fighting for top-flight survival with only goal difference keeping them out of the drop zone.

Caretaker boss Paul Hart will have to do without in-form winger Jermaine Pennant, who has torn a calf muscle.