Neville hails departing Donovan

Everton booked their place in the last eight of the FA Cup with a convincing victory against Blackpool at the weekend, with a home tie against a rejuvenated Sunderland side their reward.

The Toffees, who are looking to emulate their 2009 Final appearance, will have to continue their campaign without United States international Landon Donovan however, who has played his last match of this, his second loan spell at the club.

The 29 year old has rejoined LA Galaxy in the MLS after a two-month stint at Goodison Park, where he again made an instant impact on the squad.

Donovan tallied six assists to his name during his time at the Blues, most notably against title challengers Manchester City and Chelsea. However, he did not manage to get on the score sheet himself.

Club captain Phil Neville has been first to heap praise on the forward, suggesting he will be sorely missed.

"He immersed himself in the whole club - not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well. We will miss him," said Neville.

“He was a breathe of fresh air around the place.”

Neville was speaking ahead of a break in the Premier League fixture list, with their next clash being a visit to Loftus Road to face a QPR side a week on Saturday.

David Moyes’ men were scheduled to be gearing up for a Merseyside derby this weekend, however rivals Liverpool are at Wembley for the Carling Cup final against Cardiff City.

Everton are currently lying in tenth position in the league, nine points off a Europa League spot with all at the club itching to get European football back for the blue half of Merseyside.