Everton FC midfielder Mikel Arteta has had surgery to cure the stomach injury which has troubled him for much of the Premier League season.

Everton physio Mick Rathbone said: "Mikel had surgery to release the tension around the muscles. Hopefully that will cure it and he will be fit for pre-season. Mikel has had the problem since before Christmas and has managed to play most of the games. He has done everything to play." The 25-year-old Spaniard made 28 appearances to help Everton to fifth place.