New Everton signing James McFadden insists he has nothing to prove to anyone but himself after rejoining his former club until the end of the season.
The 28-year-old feared for his future when he was released by Birmingham at the end of last season after they were relegated. He had not played since September 2010 because of a cruciate knee injury and even his surgeon had suggested he should consider quitting when he broke down during rehabilitation in March.
However, he has returned to fitness - he played 45 minutes in Everton reserves' win over Sunderland - and manager David Moyes was keen to have him on board. The Scotland international said: "The manager asked me to come in and help because they were short on numbers and if that was not the case maybe this wouldn't be happening."
He added: "It is up to me to grab the chance and to show a bit of faith in the manager and show the fans I am good enough to play for Everton again.
"I am coming here to get fit, get playing and try to enjoy my football and hopefully secure a longer-term contract
"You get criticism in everything you do but I need to prove to myself I can come back and do as well if not better than before.
"I am not on any mission to prove anyone wrong."
The situation was different six months ago when his rehab was interrupted by another problem with his knee.
"I was training in March and then broke down again and when I spoke to the surgeon he said my time might be up. That was hard to take," added McFadden.
Source: PA
