McFadden proves his fitness
04 Oct 2006 - 14:44:00
James McFadden looks set to return to action for Scotland against France this weekend after coming through Everton's reserve team clash against Sheffield United on Wednesday unscathed.
The former Motherwell star has not played since injuring his hamstring playing for his country against Lithuania four weeks ago but completed 65 minutes of the second-string fixture.
He told Everton's official website: "It's good to get back in and get that tired feeling again. Hopefully I'm through everything now and I'm looking forward to Saturday's game against France but, when I get back to Everton, I obviously want to get back into the team.
"I want to play a part of what's going on (at Everton) because it's a perfect time to be involved and I want to get back in the fold as soon as possible.
"Pre-season had gone well and I was looking forward to coming back after the first international break. I was desperate to force my way into the side but I had a little setback and obviously have missed the last few games, which was disappointing. I just want to put that behind me now and look to the future.
"I want to provide competition for the manager and the rest of the players.
"I was fit and available to play last weekend but the manager chose to leave me off the bench. That was disappointing as I wanted to get back but the team are doing well at the minute and he felt that it was just a wee bit early for me.
"I'm raring to go now and I'd love to be involved in the next game. Everyone is doing well. The players on the pitch and the players on the fringes are trying to force their way into the team. It's a great place to be at the minute."