Kilbane and Arca looking to return

Arca, who played in the reserves 1-0 victory over Newcastle on Monday night, looks like being handed another chance with under-fire manager Peter Reid hoping he can rediscover the form he displayed in his first ever season in English football.

He last started for the first team against Derby in February and was plagued by injuries and a loss of form last season.

Arca said: "I am 100 per cent fit now.

"I know that last year I did not play well but I think that I am playing better now because my fitness is much better.

"I am ready to play this weekend if the manager wants me to but, of course, it is not my decision. Obviously I want to play but it is up to the manager to decide. If I don't play and the team wins, I won't have a problem with that.

"I had never played in a big derby before I came to England but the Newcastle-Sunderland games are massive."

Meanwhile, Kilbane is also urging Reid to include him in Saturday's all-important derby having not played since the opening day of the campaign.

Kilbane has been on the receiving end of some criticism from the terraces and Reid has been reluctant to play him regularly - especially at the Stadium of Light.

Kilbane told the clubs official website: "I would love to play in Saturday's game and maybe my experience could help.

"It's a massive game, we all know that, and the fact that I have played in it before, coupled with my experience of big games for my country, could be a benefit.

"I don't know what the manager has in mind and at the minute - I'm just trying to work hard and force my way back in."

Kilbane and Arca looking to return

Last updated : 17 September 2002 By Black Cat