Sunderland Football Club News

• Nickname:Black Cats
• Founded:1879
• Manager:Martin O'Neill

• Ground:Stadium of light
• Capacity:48,353

Edwards eyes Cats return

08 Nov 2007 - 07:03:24

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Sunderland winger Carlos Edwards has provided manager Roy Keane with a pre-derby day boost after declaring himself fit to face Newcastle United on Saturday.

The Trinidad & Tobago winger has not featured for the Black Cats since tearing a hamstring in August, but stepped up his comeback with an appearance for the club's reserves in midweek.

Edwards reported no discomfort after the run-out and has now targeted a return to the first-team fold ahead of schedule.

Keane previously suggested the 29-year-old wideman would not be available until after the international break.

"It was great to get an hour's competitive football under my belt. It felt really good, like I'd never been out," said Edwards.

"I've had no reaction to the injury and hopefully that's the way it will be from now until the end of the season.

"Now I just can't wait to get involved in the first team again.

"I don't know if the Newcastle game will be seen as coming too soon for me, but I'm up for selection as far as I'm concerned, and it's up to the manager whether or not he wants to include me in the squad.

"If I'm selected, I feel I'm capable of doing a job and I will go out there and give it 100 per cent effort.

"There is no doubt that I do need two or three games before I'm fully match fit again but I do feel I could contribute this weekend if needed, and it is a game I would love to be involved in.

"If not, then I will just accept that decision and wait for the chance to be involved in the fixture second time around."