The Spanish schemer made a brief substitute appearance in Everton's 4-2 defeat to Cambridge as he works on his return to fitness.

Arteta missed the back end of last season through injury and the former Rangers ace believes he is ahead of schedule in his return to fitness.

"I wanted to play 15 or 20 minutes I've done it and I didn't feel anything at all so it's good news for that," Arteta told the club's official website.

"I expected to play my first game in America, so I am two weeks ahead of schedule so I need to take it easy as well. I can't just go over there and do crazy things because I'm still just about returning from the injury but I'm so happy to be back.

"I trying to get my fitness levels up and trying to get used to playing with people around me because it's different to when you are training on your own - so my aim is to get on the pitch and to get back to normal."

Toffees boss David Moyes was delighted to see Arteta back in action, but conceded he is still a way off full fitness.

"It was good to get Arteta back but I think it was very noticeable that he is a long, long way off," noted Moyes.

"But he will be ready for the start of the Premier League season."