The giant Norwegian returned to Spain buoyed by an insistence from Norway's national team doctor that there are no doubts over his fitness.

Fulham pulled out of the proposed �7.5 deal after claiming Carew failed to pass a medical.

But Lars Engebretsen, who looks after Carew's fitness for the Norwegian team, insisted there is no problem.

Engebretsen said: "I was really surprised when I read that he had 'jumpers' knee.'

"I've examined John Carew many times, the last time being against Armenia in October.

"General knee examinations have also been carried out and John Carew has been given a clean bill of health," he told Norwegian newspaper VG.

"He didn't have it then and nobody has ever said anything about jumpers' knee.

"John Carew is actually one of the only players in the national team who have what is called a blank record.

"That means he's never been injured. I examine all the players at least twice a year."

Carew said himself that he had been experiencing knee problems.

But Engebretson said: I think John may have said that because when you are out of the team you think that trivialities are really big problems."

Carew returned to Spain and said: "I'm happy to carry on playing at Valencia

"For the moment, I'm here and I'm not thinking about going anywhere else.

"I'm not hurt by the transfer not going through, it was just another possibility that didn't come to fruition.

"Now I want to show more of what I can do for Valencia. It won't be a problem for me to play againts Real Madrid. I'm fine.

Carew's chances of a recall have improved as regular striker Salva Ballesta is suspended following his dismissal in a 3-1 win over Real Betis. P>