LaMichael James has said that he would be ready if the San Francisco 49ers handed him his debut this weekend.

The running back was a second-round draft pick earlier this year, but has yet to feature for San Francisco.

James told the 49ers' website: "I'm here for a reason, I can play. I've always felt like that.

"Whatever the team needs me to do, that's what I'm going to do. I'm young, I'm still learning. Whatever it takes me, that's what I'm going to do to get on the field.

"I feel like I can go out there and help the team, obviously I prep for it each and every week. Hopefully I can provide a spark."

Head coach Jim Harbaugh has hinted on local radio that James could feature this month.

Kendall Hunter had been leading rusher Frank Gore's backup until sustaining a season-ending injury two weeks ago.

Written by
Sian Cowper