Hitzlsperger targets Everton debut

On Thursday we speculated that Thomas Hitzlsperger's judgement day was fast approaching.

The 30-year-old former Germany international and former Aston Villa and West Ham midfielder joined up with Everton last month and reports on Wednesday had suggested that we had offered him a short-term deal.

Counter reports in The Echo suggested the news as a bit premature, but with Marouane Fellaini out for the next three weeks with a knee injury and Darron Gibson struggling with a thigh injury. Everton and Hitzlsperger did agree a short-term deal on Friday, with the midfielder signing a deal until January.

'I have been here for four weeks training with the lads and I've really enjoyed it. So I'm delighted we've finally agreed on a contract and I can't wait for the first game. Hitzlsperger told evertonfc.com.

That first game nearly came yesterday, although he didn't actually make it as far as making his Everton debut, he was included in the match day squad.

Obviously his next focus after earning a contract is fighting his way into the team and the German does not suffer for a fear of confidence as he proclaims he will add quality to David Moyes's squad.

He added: 'I am happy with the way things have developed. In the summer I had just come back from injury and when I first came here and got the opportunity to train with the team I was delighted. It is a good team that has had a good start to the season and it was a great chance for me to get back into Premiership football.

'I am hoping for continued success. The team has started really well and I want to be a part of this team and its success. I want to add some quality to the squad. There is a lot of quality here already but I want to add a little bit and hopefully get some games and play well.'

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