Everton’s James McFadden
James McFadden’s New Year’s resolution is to force his way into David Moyes’ starting line-up.
The Scotland international has featured in just two games this term following his return to Goodison in October.
Signed as a free agent, McFadden’s first run-out at Newcastle in November was his first competitive outing for over a year because of an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in his final season at Birmingham.
But a hamstring strain prevented him building on that first taste of football until the Boxing Day return to the north east.
Now feeling strong and fit, the 28-year-old is eager to steer clear of further injury in order to justify Moyes’ faith in him.
“My hopes for the rest of the season are to help the team as much as I can. Â First and foremost I was brought in to help out the numbers and I have got to show the manager that I can force my way into the team and hopefully get a bit of action.
“We have a lot of games coming up so hopefully I can get more minutes on the pitch.
“It feels like I have not been away.  They boys have been great and it’s mostly the same staff and probably half the same squad so it’s been easy to slot back in,” said the Scotsman.
McFadden’s hamstring blow last month was hugely frustrating for a player desperate to get back to regular football action. Â But it made his Sunderland appearance all the more satisfying.
He added: “It was good to be back involved. Â I have been on the bench for the last couple of games so it was good to get on. Â Obviously I would have liked a little bit more but I am trying to build it up.
“The knee is alright. Â I feel fine in training and the next step is to play a few games.”