Arca happy to be back

Boro skipper aims to keep place

Last updated: 9th April 2008

middlesbrough julio arca man utd

Arca battles against United

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Middlesbrough captain Julio Arca insists he wants to keep his place in the side after being restored to the starting XI at the weekend.

Arca was dropped after Boro's loss at Liverpool in February - when the Argentine gifted the home side's opening goal to Fernando Torres.

Now after a month on the sidelines, Arca played a major role in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United on Sunday.

"It was good to be back. I felt a bit down and frustrated when I was out of the side, and now I am determined to keep my place," said Arca.

"I couldn't complain because the lads were playing well. They played very well against Chelsea and Arsenal, so I was pleased to be back against Manchester United and pleased with the draw.

"We are proud of the point but disappointed that we didn't win."

Alves praise

Arca added to the plaudits being heaped upon Afonso Alves, who scored both goals in Boro's 2-2 draw with United.

"He makes great runs and is so sharp," he said.

"He can go past any centre back in this division, so he will be a big asset to the team and it's good to play behind someone who can do that.

"He could be the natural finisher that we need.

"We have had problems with centre forwards, but he could be the answer."