Leighton Baines and Phil Jagielka could be fit for huge Manchester City clash

Everton have been handed a big double injury boost as Leighton Baines and Phil Jagielka should be fit to face Manchester City at the weekend.

The news will also be received well by Liverpool fans who need a favour from their city neighbours in order to win the Premier League. Liverpool’s 2-0 defeat to Chelsea on Sunday meant that the title pendulum swung back in City’s favour and the Reds now need their title rivals to drop points somewhere in their three remaining games.

If they don’t, City will likely win the title on goal difference.

Blues boss Roberto Martinez is confident that both Baines, who has been brilliant recently, and Jagielka will be fit and is assured that Sylvain Distin’s chances of playing stand at 50/50..

“Leighton Baines is set to be fit for this weekend’s game against Manchester City,”said a statement on the club’s official website.

“The England international was assessed over the weekend, but has reacted well to the problem, meaning he should be fit for Saturday’s crunch Goodison clash.”

And Martinez added details of Jagielka’s fitness himself.

“Phil has done really well in his programme and has developed strength in his muscles. He looks completely regenerated and is desperate to be available,” said the Spaniard.

“It will be a late call whether he is available or not but I would be surprised if he doesn’t make the squad for Saturday.”

Only Kevin Mirallas (61) has created more chances at Everton than Baines (45) this season.