expressed desire to return to Bermuda and play in this month's friendly match against the United States B team later this month.

The players as well as their clubs, Rotherham and Walsall respectively, have been contacted by the Bermuda Football Association (BFA) regarding the duo's availability for the match against the Bermuda National squad on March 29.

"I explained to (BFA administrative assistant) David Sabir that it was no problem on my behalf, but the situation here with my club looking to get promoted, my manager (Kenny Hibbitt) is going to want to have everyone available,'' said Lightbourne yesterday from his Walsall residence.

"I'll let them (club officials) make the decision.

"Sabir said they were looking at me arriving on a Sunday and leaving on a Wednesday and I wouldn't have a game in that time so it shouldn't be a problem. I always want to play for my country and represent them at any time.

"Also my manager is always keen to have players going to represent their country but that doesn't mean he won't be worried (about the injury factor).'' Lightbourne was gearing for today's crucial match against Third Division leaders Crewe Alexander with Walsall desperately in need of maximum points to keep alive fading promotion hopes.

Walsall have slumped lately, dropping to eighth, however Lightbourne has shown flair in notching nine goals to lead the team in scoring.

A recent game saw the Bermudian forced out with an injured shoulder and he said that today would have him wearing a special harness to protect the troublesome shoulder.

In fact, surgery might be required at the end of the season although Lightbourne noted that the team physician was against that idea.

Meanwhile, one division higher Goater and his Rotherham teammates are fighting to avoid a return to the Third Division.

In and out of the starting line-up most of the season, the fleet-footed striker -- like Lightbourne -- is battling to earn a new contract as his current deal expires at the end of the season. He, too, referred the matter of availability for national duty to his team manager, Phil Henson.

When asked about his willingness to play for Bermuda after statements to the contrary following Bermuda's World Cup campaign in December 1992, Goater said: "It was a statement of someone who thought he had hit the big time.'' But he says now he is "always happy to play for his country''.

Neither were aware of any rule that mandated their release for a friendly match, however.

"I believe that they have the right to demand me or any other player if it is with the agreement of FIFA (the world governing body for soccer),'' said Goater, who is scheduled to replace dropped top scorer Imre Varadi for today's match against Cambridge United.

Concern have arisen with the institution of a new rule noting that players could be suspended from playing for their clubs if they fail to report for national duty.