According the the Ronnie, Clarence Acuna is ready to turn down an SOS from his country.

Acuna met Chile's new coach Pedro Garcia today who wants him to represent his country in the WC qualifier against Nol Solano's Peru in just over two weeks. Apparently, the Chilean FA are to hand Acuna an olive branch by opening an investigation into the circumstances of the 26-year-old's ban last year when he was suspended for four months after testing positive for a banned substance. It was former coach Acosta's lack of support over the ban which led Acuna to turn his back on international football last year before joining United.

Acuna's return to the international scene would give Bobby Robson a massive headache given United's current injury crisis and Solano's decision to once again play for Peru. However, it seems he is ready to shun Chile in a bid to establish himself at St James's Park following his £1 million move from Universidad de Chile.

Acuna knows that BR cannot afford to lose another midfielder with Kieron Dyer out for the season and Solano likely to miss games.

He has said "I am fully committed to Newcastle United, and I feel obliged to consider the interests of my club when making a decision on my international career."

This guy clearly knows which side his bread is buttered on, and will certainly be endearing himself to BR, who he obviously feels indebted to. Good on ya, Clarence.

-- Anonymous, March 10, 2001

Answers

God, it's dead on here today - talk about flogging a dead horse!

-- Anonymous, March 10, 2001

Isn't it though, Clarky.

Where is everybody else ? It's eery and a little bit echo-ey feeling in cyberspace tonight.

Great stuff, though. I've been enjoying your postings.

-- Anonymous, March 10, 2001

well, that's me - I'm off t'pub.

-- Anonymous, March 10, 2001

I'm here - where are the rest of youse? Just got in to the "Land of the Frozen Chosen". Bliddy caad myund. BrrrrrrrrrrrRobson.

-- Anonymous, March 10, 2001