Arca hopeful of derby date

Sunderland midfielder Julio Arca believes he has a “50-50 chance” of featuring in the Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle on Sunday.

The Argentinian has been sidelined for the last three weeks with a fractured toe and Black Cats manager Mick McCarthy insists his star man is “very unlikely” to be involved at St James’ Park.

However, Arca is determined to play a part at some stage of the proceedings.

“I will do everything I can to get fit and a decision is unlikely to be made until nearer the game,” Arca told the club’s official website www.safc.com.

“At the moment maybe I have a 50-50 chance. I’m doing some gym work and I’m hoping to be able to join is training on Friday.

“I will do everything I can to get fit, I want desperately to play in the derby.”

Fellow midfielder Christian Bassila has already ruled himself out of the game with a hamstring problem, and Arca admits he has a lot to do to get involved.

“The gaffer has said that he doesn’t want to risk me and I understand that, but if there’s the slightest chance I want to play.

“I’ve been training hard this week, in the swimming pool and running, but I am not back kicking the ball yet. I can run but I have to be able to turn and to kick the ball without any pain.”