MICK McCarthy has told Ben Clark to become his Mr Versatile if he wants to play a vital part in Sunderland's promotion bid.

The 20-year-old centre-back stepped into midfield on Saturday after the Black Cats suffered a injury crisis.

The Shotley Bridge-born former Manchester United trainee had hardly trained in the four weeks before Saturday's game, but his manager was still full of praise for his efforts.

McCarthy said: "Ben Clark came in and looked every inch a midfield player. It was a good performance by him and he deserves a pat on the back.

"I have nothing but admiration for him and the other lads who came in. Ben has not played many games or done much training recently. He did very well against Hartlepool and he is an important member of our squad.

"We were down to 17 professionals on Saturday because of injuries or suspensions and Ben came in and did a great job for me."

Clark started the season as a first-choice centre-back at the Stadium of Light before losing his place after suffering a facial injury.

Clark said: "I've had one or two injury problems this season but I enjoyed it on Saturday. It was tough, fitness wise, because I haven't played that many games recently.

"I enjoyed the game and I enjoyed the midfield role and I'm hoping to play my part in the last half of the season."

McCarthy, meanwhile, hopes to complete a three-month loan deal for Wolves midfielder Kevin Cooper in time for Saturday's clash with Nottingham Forest.

FA Cup hero Julio Arca has revealed his frustration after earning his second suspension of the season.

The 22-year-old Argentinian scored the winner against Pool but then picked up his fifth booking of the season to earn a ban for the trip to Millwall on January 17.

"It's disappointing to be suspended again," said Arca, who has already missed three matches after being sent off twice.

"I seem to have missed a lot of games through suspension this season - the Millwall game will be the fourth I've had to sit out.

"The bookings that led to the two red cards, I was unhappy with, but I could have no complaints with Saturday's yellow card.''

l Tickets for Sunderland's FA Cup fourth round tie with Ipswich Town are now available to season ticket holders. They will go on general sale to fans on Friday January 16, subject to availability.

l Michael Gray is in the dark about his future and any possible return to Celtic.

The 29-year-old has returned to Sunderland after his loan spell with the Glasgow giants expired on New Year's Eve.

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill indicated that he could extend the deal but the wing-back has revealed that he has yet to get in touch.

Gray admitted: ''I've returned to Sunderland now for a few days at least.

''He (Martin O'Neill) hasn't said anything to me and I don't know what's happening.

''I'll keep my head down in training but I can't speak to anybody at the moment because everything's up in the air.'