Relieved Arca happy to be back
03 Nov 2008 - 12:26:06
Julio Arca is looking forward to playing a key role in Middlesbrough's season after finally proving his fitness after struggling with an ankle ligament injury for the last three months.
The Argentinian play-maker has made brief substitute appearances in the recent games against Manchester City and West Ham United, his first taste of first-team action so far this season.
The former Sunderland star told the Evening Gazette, he said: "For me now it's 27 games to go so I'm looking forward to playing as much as I can. Whatever happens in the past has gone and I'm looking forward to the future.
"It was frustrating being out because I had done all the pre-season work and played in nearly every game and it was only two weeks before the start of the season I had the injury.
"But it happens and there's nothing you can do about it. Now I'm just looking forward to getting back into the team.
"It's always hard to get into the team. I've been out for three months now and the players in the team have been doing well but if the manager gives me a chance I will take it.
"Gareth is that kind of manager. When bad things happen he stands by you. Throughout all my injury problems he has stood by me. He let me go to Argentina without any problems and I'm sure he's glad to see me back.
"Now we try and work together to do what's best for the team."