FADDY AIMS TO KEEP PLACE

James McFadden wants to retain his place in the Everton team.

The Toffees are close to securing the signing of Nigerian international striker Yakubu, but McFadden hopes to provide real competition for a striking berth.

His aspirations were helped by a vital equalising goal against Blackburn last weekend.

Making his first start since the bieginning of the year, the Scot managed to play the full 90 minutes after recovering from a sore foot and, previously, a broken metatarsal.

"I got in (on Saturday) and hopefully I can stay in there," Faddy told evertonTV, "I'll just keep working hard and see how it goes.

"I've not started a game since January for Everton and it is pleasing to score at any time.

"I like scoring at Goodison and hopefully there will be a few more before the end of the season."

While the competition for places up front is evident, McFadden believes that there is decent depth throughout the squad.

"Jags (Phil Jagielka) came in and did a great job and Joleon (Lescott) came in and he's top class centre half," said Faddy.

"There's competition across the team and that is what we need. Players are going to be needed at different times and the modern game is a squad game."