NO LUCK FOR BLACK CAT ARCA

Arca, who signed for £3.5 million from Argentinos Juniors in the summer, has been in outstanding form this season and scored on his Black Cats debut against West Ham. But boss Peter Reid will now have to do without the diminutive South American and admits his loss is a big blow.

"Arca's gone home to play in an Under-20 international," explained Reid. "We were unable to get his release and he won't be back in time for Saturday's game. It's a big blow because the lad has done very well."

Kevin Kilbane is likely to deputise for the Argentinian after returning from a three-match suspension for a petulant push on Chelsea's Greame Le Saux.

Meanwhile, Sunderland's match with Bradford City at the Stadium of Light on January 20 has been moved to the following day for live coverage on Sky TV.