Leighton Baines could return from injury for Everton against Bournemouth

Martinez is taking a lot of care with Baines as he returns from injury. Credit: PA

Everton boss Roberto Martinez has stressed the importance of taking a careful approach with Leighton Baines as he considers whether to involve the full-back in Saturday's clash with Bournemouth.

Baines is yet to make a first-team appearance this season due to an ankle injury, but continued to step up his rehabilitation on Sunday with a 45-minute run-out for the Toffees' under-21s.

Martinez spoke last week of taking things "day by day" in terms of a decision on when the England international should return to the full Everton side, a phrase he used again on Thursday at his press conference for the Barclays Premier League game at the Vitality Stadium.

And while the manager indicated the "physically ready" Baines could feature against Bournemouth, he also emphasised a key factor in the late call to be made will be the 30-year-old's mental preparedness for a return to action.

"Physically, from a medical point of view, Leighton is ready," Martinez said.

"It is just making sure that we give him the right introduction to get that match fitness - and more than anything, it is about having the confidence back in terms of being able to go into a 50-50 challenge without feeling fearful.

"We need to be very careful we give him the confidence and prepare his body to be really strong.

"So we'll take it day-by-day and make a decision tomorrow in terms of being involved on Saturday.

"It is just about giving Leighton exactly what he needs.

"It is no good to rush him back, then lose him for the rest of the campaign. It is important we give him the right adaptation period."