Everton winger Yannick Bolasie made a return to Premier League action on Boxing Day after a year out with an injury.

The 28-year-old DR Congo player was handed a surprise starting berth in 0-0 draw at West Bromwich Albian and played for an hour.

“I didn’t realize I was in the starting 11 until late. What a great Xmas present to get. Hopefully go one better next game,” he tweeted.

He thanked the fans for their support during the trying period.

Bolasie has been sidelined since rapturing a cruciate ligament against Manchester United in December last year.

He made his comeback for the U23 against Leicester City last Monday and featured for the first half again on Friday in 0-0 draw against Dinamo Zagreb in the Premier League International Cup.

His return is sweet music to DR Congo who failed to qualify for 2018 World Cup in his absence.

The Leopards are however still in the race to 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.