Fitness concern for Fellaini

Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini is struggling to win his fitness race and may not be back to his best until October.

The admission from the 23-year-old that he remains some way short of full match sharpness provides an untimely setback to the Toffees' pre-season plans, with the 2011/12 campaign fast approaching.The Belgium midfielder has been nursing an ankle problem since March and was forced under the knife in an effort to cure the ailment.It was hoped that surgery would see him back to full fitness in time for the start of the new season.Fellaini was able to make his return to action for the Toffees in a 4-1 friendly victory over Bury last week, but he believes that it may be a while before he is firing on all cylinders again."It is always tricky to come back from a serious injury," he said."I have worked hard, but I think I will only be on top form in two to three months' time."I want to have a great season with Everton, and to play in big matches for them. I have made enormous progress. I really hope we will make a good start to the season."