James McFadden believes that he will be able to reproduce the heroics he displayed for Scotland on a weekly basis now that he has been reunited with Alex McLeish, his mentor. The 24-year-old forward joined Birmingham City from Everton yesterday in a deal that could be worth £6 million as he signed a 3½year contract – with an option for a further two years – in time to be named in the squad for the match against Chelsea this afternoon.

In his time as Scotland manager, McLeish drew the best out of McFadden, who has scored 13 times in 36 internationals, most memorably the winning goal away to France four months ago in a European Championship campaign that nearly ended in glory. “He seemed to get the best out of me when I played for Scotland and hopefully he can continue to do that on a weekly basis,” the former Motherwell player said. “He instils a lot of confidence in you and a lot of belief.

“It was a success at Scotland and I am looking forward to the challenge. To pay that money for me was massive and shows how much he wanted me. Hopefully I can repay him.”

McLeish is confident McFadden can make a big impact. “I am delighted to have signed James,” the manager said. “He is not just a guy who can score great goals. He can also create things and he has got a big heart. He has had his initiation at Everton in the Premier League and for me he is a definite Premier League player. He has shown that in a very good Everton side this season. When he has come into the side, I am not so sure anyone has looked as good as him.” McFadden was frustrated not to get a regular place at Everton, where his versatility was a mixed blessing, as he always felt as if he was filling in for others. “I thought I did all right at Everton when I played,” he said. “Some games I did play poorly and deserved to be left out but there were times I didn’t deserve to be left out. That was because I was filling in.

“I have managed to be fortunate to do well at international level but I have never quite done it with Everton so hopefully this is where it can happen for me.”