Soccer: Exiled Republic of Ireland midfielder Darron Gibson could be the key to a top-four finish for Everton, according to Toffees defender Phil Jagielka.

The England centre back has been impressed with the Derryman on his return from injury in recent weeks, which culminated in an inspirational performance in Everton's dramatic 2-1 win over Tottenham on Sunday, in which two late goals snatched victory at Goodison Park.

"Gibbo is massively important for us," Jagielka told the Daily Post. "It's important to have someone who can keep the opposing defence on their toes purely knowing if he does get a bit of time, he can be like our quarterback and start putting in some fantastic passes.

"Maybe Gibbo hasn't scored that many since he has been here, he's not a dribbler and not what you'd see as a fancy dan sort of player. But if you filmed his role in the team and watched it back there'd be some fantastic passes, great tackles and some clever football.

"He came from a great club in Man United and it proves that way with the time he finds on the ball and the confidence he has in those long-range passes."

Gibson has not been in an Ireland squad since Euro 2012, having requested some time off following the disappointment of being an unused substitute in all three games in Poland.