PHIL NEVILLE believes he can win his battle to be fit for the start of the season after returning to action with Everton.

Neville, who underwent an operation on his knee in May that sidelined him for eight weeks, travelled with David Moyes’s side for the recent tour to Australia.

The skipper sat out the victories against Sydney FC and Melbourne Storm, but managed to last the full 90 minutes on his return in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Brisbane Roar.

And Neville is now eyeing another full outing at Preston North End tomorrow as Everton look to extend their 100% pre-season record.

“The injury has cleared up now and I’m progressing well,” said Neville. “I’m taking part in all the sessions now and I feel fit.

“I got 90 minutes under my belt against Brisbane which was a big bonus for me really. I should have played probably only 60 minutes but I felt so good I played the 90.

“Hopefully I can get 90 against Preston and kick on with my fitness, because it’s all about fitness now. We’ve won three out of three so far so we want to continue the winning streak because winning breeds confidence.”