James McFadden

James McFadden

James Henry McFadden (born 14 April 1983) is a Scottish footballer who is currently playing for Sunderland in the Premier League.

McFadden started his career with Scottish Premier League club Motherwell. He came to prominence in the 2002–03 season by scoring 19 goals and winning the Scottish PFA Young Player of the Year award. Everton signed McFadden for £1.25 million in 2003. He struggled to hold down a regular place in the Everton team and moved to Birmingham City for £5 million in January 2008. A serious injury meant that McFadden missed most of the 2010–11 season and Birmingham, who were relegated in his absence, decided not to renew his contract. McFadden signed for Everton on a free transfer in October 2011, after regaining his fitness.

McFadden was first capped by Scotland in 2002. As of October 2011, he has played 48 times for Scotland and scored 15 goals. His goal for Scotland in the Euro 2008 qualification match on 12 September 2007 against France in the Parc des Princes is regarded as one of Scotland's most famous goals.