Andy van der Meyde has expressed his relief at making his first senior appearance for Everton since April.
The Dutchman came on as a late substitute in The Toffees’ enthralling 3-2 defeat at home to Aston Villa on Sunday, as he turned out for David Moyes’ side for the first time this season.
And Van der Meyde is hopeful he has now done enough to be involved in Everton’s trip to Manchester City on Sunday.
“I wanted to prove something to David Moyes and it was good for myself also. I've been waiting for this moment a long time. I was unlucky with injuries but hopefully now I'm back in the team,” Van der Meyde told the club’s official website.
“I'm happy the fans trust in me and want to give me a chance. I hope I can give them something back.
“We have good players at Everton and if everyone is fit it is difficult to get in. This is a good chance for me.
“I don't know if I will be involved against City, it's up to the gaffer. He's the boss and he makes the choices but I hope I'm involved.”
Van der Meyde continued: “After such a long time it was nice to have the feeling of being part of the team again. I was so happy.
“I think they expect a lot here, the supporters. And they should do because we've got a good team and we should play well. We didn't play badly today but if you give it away in the last 10 seconds it's not good.
“In the first half especially we were the better team and we did not deserve to lose.”