It was the renowned surgeon who operated on Vaughan after the 20-year-old had endured serious problems with his left knee.

However, Steadman was forced to cancel the latest surgery after breaking his arm in a skiing accident.

That forced Everton and Vaughan into seeking help in England, with the young striker going under the knife yesterday to repair lateral cartilage damage.

“James had his operation yesterday and everything went very well,” confirmed Everton assistant manager Steve Round.

“We now wish him a speedy recovery, and hopefully he should be fit before the end of the season.

“But we will have to keep a tab on that and see how it goes over the next few weeks.”

Vaughan is one of four Everton strikers currently out of action, although Victor Anichebe and Louis Saha are both closing in on a return.

Anichebe missed the 1-0 win at Manchester City with a back injury last weekend, whilst Saha has sat out the last three weeks with hamstring trouble.

Both players are due to undergo fitness tests over the weekend with regard to the possibility of figuring in Monday’s game with Chelsea at Goodison Park.