The Nigerian has been with the squad on their North American tour primarily to maintain his fitness work and rehabilitation, having not played since November following an Achilles injury.

But Yakubu was involved in a practice match ahead of this week's game against a Major League Soccer All-Stars side in Salt Lake City, Utah.

A second plus point for boss David Moyes has been to hear midfielder Steven Pienaar offering reassuring words about his future at the club after an initial offer of a new contract was rejected.

Pienaar, who is struggling with a leg injury ahead of the MLS All-Stars match, has said: "It is seldom that both parties come to an agreement at the first attempt.

"Coming to such an important agreement takes time. We have only just started discussions and we will keep on talking until hopefully we get a deal that is right for both parties."

Pienaar, who has two years of his current contract left, said: "The fact that it is taking time does not mean I am unhappy at Everton, but this next contract for me is obviously very important at this stage of my career.

"I would like to play Champions League football again and hopefully that will be with Everton."

Everton return to the UK at the end of the week, and have three friendlies next week. They will send teams to Coventry on Sunday and Blackpool the following Tuesday, before facing Malaga at Goodison Park on August 7.

Yakubu will not be involved in the American friendly, but could have a run-out in one of the home-based friendlies next week.

Everton are bracing themselves for another Manchester City bid for defender Joleon Lescott, having rejected an initial offer of £15million.

It is understood that Lescott will have to formally ask for a transfer for the deal to move forward in any way, with Moyes and chairman Bill Kenwright adamant that no player will leave Goodison against the manager's wishes.

Everton have been linked with Tottenham's Scottish defender Alan Hutton, Manchester City centre-back Nedum Onuoha and Benfica's defensive midfielder Hassan Yebda.

The Toffees are still considering a move for Port Vale's teenage striker James Lawrie, after the 18-year-old had a trial period with the club last week.

Lawrie, already with a full cap for Northern Ireland, further enhanced his reputation yesterday by scoring the winner for Northern Ireland's under-19s in a Milk Cup match against Germany.

Moyes has fitness worries over Leighton Baines (ankle), Leon Osman (ankle) and Joseph Yobo (illness) ahead of the MLS game.