McFadden admits ‘bitter-sweet’ return to action

JAMES McFadden admitted he had mixed feelings after making his first appearance in over a year.

The former Motherwell player re-signed for Everton last month after leaving Birmingham City in the summer.

He played in the Goodison Park club’s defeat at Newcastle last weekend, his first appearance since September last year when he suffered a knee injury.

But although the 48-times capped Scotland player was thrilled to be back playing, he was disappointed at losing the match.

McFadden said: “It was bitter-sweet to be honest. I have been out for a long time, so it was pleasing to get back out there, but I would have preferred it to be in better circumstances as the result was obviously disappointing.

“I felt all right. I have had a couple of reserve-team games, 45 minutes each, and adrenaline gets you through so it was great to be back, but it was a disappointing result.”

And the 28-year-old is determined to help David Moyes’ side climb the Premier League.

He added: “Since I came back here the mood in the camp has been really good.

“Obviously results have not been great and we are on a bad run.

“The lads are hurting now but we will get back to work and, as I said, the mood has been okay and I am sure we will bounce back.

“We just need that bit of luck we don’t seem to be getting at the moment.”