McFadden backing Ferguson

Posted Wednesday, February 03, 2010 by PA

James McFadden believes his Birmingham team-mate Barry Ferguson still has "a big contribution" to make for Scotland.

Ferguson's international career looked under serious threat when he was not considered for selection after off-the-field incidents last season when on duty with his country. But new Scotland boss Craig Levein has indicated the slate will be wiped clean for all potential members of his squad.

McFadden said: "Everybody that watches Birmingham can see what a good player Barry is. In his last year up in Scotland, he was maybe starting to doubt himself a little bit but he has come here and shown everybody exactly how good he is."

He added: "He has been brilliant for Birmingham and a big part of the reason that we've had such a great run.

"I think he's still got a big contribution to make in the international scene. I think it would be great for the country if Barry did come back in."

Birmingham have suffered only one defeat in their last 17 games, and McFadden will be happy to move into a forward role if Blues boss Alex McLeish decides a change is needed to the established partnership of Cameron Jerome and Christian Benitez.

With veteran Kevin Phillips sidelined with a groin problem, it leaves McFadden as the only alternative after the failure to sign the likes of Roman Pavlyuchenko and Kenwyne Jones during the transfer window.

McFadden, who has played a deeper role recently, said: "The gaffer put me up front in the FA Cup tie against Everton when Cameron was injured and I really enjoyed it.

"I don't mind where I am on the pitch but that is the position I enjoy playing the most and would happily do it whenever I am asked."