Transfer News: Motherwell sign James McFadden for a third time

Scottish Premiership strugglers Motherwell have signed James McFadden on a short-term contract until the end of January.

The 32-year-old agreed terms at Fir Park for the third time in his career on Friday afternoon, and will travel with the squad for Saturday's match against Celtic.

McFadden made his debut for the Steelmen in 2000 and over the following three years established himself in the first team before earning a move to England.

The Scotland international played for Birmingham, Everton and Sunderland before returning to Lanarkshire for a second spell in 2013.

McFadden, who will wear the No 24 jersey, spent most of last season with St Johnstone, but has been a free agent since the summer.

He has been training with Motherwell for several months, and manager Mark McGhee has been impressed enough to arrange the deal.

"I am delighted to be back, the club has always had a special place in my heart and I've always had a close bond with the supporters," McFadden told MFC TV.

"I've been training hard, feel fit and I've attended almost every game this season and I really believe I can help out. From my point of view, it obviously helps me get some game time.

"I've really enjoyed working with the manager here. Although I've never previously worked with him, it's clear he's a straight shooter and he's not one for sentiment, so this is about what I can contribute on and off the park when I am here.

"I feel fit, I'm ready to go if selected and I just cannot wait to get started again."

Faddy has performed superbly well in training and deserves a chance. It's fair to say he's not doing this for the money, purely a love of the game.

And McGhee is confident the fans favourite has much to offer the team as Motherwell look to climb clear of the relegation area.

McGhee said: "Faddy has performed superbly well in training and deserves a chance here. It's fair to say he's not doing this for the money, purely a love of the game and a desire to help.

"I see him as a great character to have about the club, he's a winner. He passionately cares about how this club performs and that sort of enthusiasm will, I think, help inspire some of the youngsters about him."