Arca's injury wobble

Julio Arca could miss Sunderland's Championship clash with Wigan Athletic on Saturday after a freak incident in training.

The Argentine full back is expected to spend a night in hospital after being stung by a jellyfish during a Wednesday morning training session.

Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy had taken his players for a run on Seaburn beach and then a dip in the North Sea, when Arca felt a pain in his chest.

He returned to the club's training complex but the sting turned in to a rash and Arca was taken to hospital for treatment.

Sunderland GP Dr David Gough admits the bizarre injury is under control but conceded Arca may not be ready to face Wigan.

"He'll be fine," Gough told the club's official website. "He was treated quickly and in the right way.

"He's on painkillers and he'll stay in hospital for observation. It is purely precautionary.

"We don't know if he'll be fit for Saturday, we'll be in a better position to say tomorrow."

McCarthy is optimistic there will be no further setbacks for Arca but admitted the club could not take any risks following the incident.

The Sunderland manager said: "He was in some discomfort when he went to hospital but I've spoken to the doctor and Julio's fine now.

"We don't think there will be any further reaction to the sting but you have to be cautious with something like this."