James McCarthy has become something of a forgotten man at Everton due to his lengthy injury absence with an incredibly unfortunate double leg-break.

Injuries of the excruciating and debilitating nature McCarthy has suffered can single-handedly change a players career. The time the Republic of Ireland international has spent on the sideline will ensure a slow and tedious return to professional football, but a recent report suggests that Marco Silva is eager to get him back on the field as soon as possible, albeit not in Everton blue.

According to a recent report from TEAMtalk, Silva sees a big future for McCarthy with the Toffees, but he is acutely aware of his distinct lack of match fitness and he is willing to allow him to leave on loan until the end of the season to rebuild his fitness.

The report claims Fulham, Brighton and Burnley are all interested in completing a January deal and McCarthy will consult Silva before deciding which side to join.

After such a prolonged period of time on the sidelines it's fantastic to hear that McCarthy is edging closer to a full return to first-team football, and with the likes of Andre Gomes and Idrissa Gueye performing so consistently in central midfield there's no question a loan move is in his best interests.

Silva's ambition of eventually utilising his quality at Everton is certainly well placed considering how important he was to the club prior to his major injury setback, but whether McCarthy returns the player he once was remains to be seen.

With Gomes setting the new standard in Everton's midfield, McCarthy will have to re-establish the level of form he showcased before his injury, otherwise he may find himself searching for a permanent move away from the club.

Either way a loan move in January can only be a positive for all parties concerned as the injury-savaged midfielder aims to prove his credentials to Silva.

Everton fans - thoughts? Let us know below!