Duncan Ferguson yesterday hailed his return to Everton: "I'm delighted to be back." The 28-year-old striker's on-off £3.75 million transfer from Newcastle finally went through and he has signed a five-year contract.

The Scot was sold to Newcastle for £7 million two seasons ago, but has always kept fond feelings for Everton - he has the club badge tattooed on his arm.

At a news conference at Goodison Park he said: "I couldn't imagine it in pre-season. I was, at the time, very happy at Newcastle but since then an opportunity has arisen to come back and I'm delighted. All the fans know how I feel about the club.

"There was never a doubt in my mind once Newcastle had decided they no longer required my services.

"When I first came here the fans just took to me right away. Everton's in my blood - it has always been there and this opportunity is fantastic for myself."

Ferguson's time at Newcastle was blighted by injury but he insisted he was "100 per cent fit" now.

"Now I just want to keep fit for selection. I'll have to do a bit of training but should be ready in a couple of weeks." said Ferguson.

Walter Smith revealed his disappointment at losing Ferguson before, and was glad to welcome him back to the club - especially with Kevin Campbell out. "We dropped a few positions at the end of last season when we lost Kevin Campbell," he said. "We needed cover. When it became public knowledge Duncan was available, we were the first club in for him.

"I was disappointed in the manner we lost him. I think all the supporters are delighted Duncan is coming back."