English professionals Shawn Goater and Kyle Lightbourne spent last evening getting re-acquainted with their Bermuda team-mates ahead of tonight's match with DC United.

Some may be familiar to the pair, but others, like schoolboy Kofi Dill, may not be.

"I know him from his young days,'' Goater said of Dill who plays for North Village, Goater's former team. "That shows I'm getting a little old.'' Goater has been playing in England for the last 10 years and for the past five has not played for Bermuda at all. His only contact with local football has been through the summer camp he runs with David Bascome.

Two of the faces remaining from when Goater last played for Bermuda in 1994 are former professionals Meshach Wade and Kentoine Jennings.

Goater and Lightbourne recognise the job they can play in helping relaunch the international programme which will also include attempting to qualify for the next World Cup.

"That's why it's important that the likes of Kyle and myself get back on as many occasions as possible to play,'' said Goater.

"We realise how important it is for the national team to keep the programme going.

"We want to do the best we can in assisting the BFA in providing good opportunities for all the players.'' Goater scored his 18th goal of the season on Saturday as Manchester City won 3-1 at Reading. The heat forced him to be substituted in the second half and Goater is relieved to know that today's match is at night.

"I had chest problems and was struggling to breathe,'' he explained. "It was the first game we've played when it was really warm. I was out earlier today and it was a bit warm so I'm pleased to know it's an evening game, that should suit Kyle and myself a bit better.'' Lightbourne returned to the Stoke City team for their 3-2 away win over Wigan, though he didn't score as Stoke came from 2-0 down at the half. Like Goater, he can't wait to pull on the Bermuda jersey again, having been a part of the Caribbean Cup team last year.

"I know there have been some player problems this season but I'm sure we should give people a boost, those in and around football,'' said the lanky striker.

"If we play to our full potential it could be a good game. I don't watch too much of the American league so I don't know any of the (DC United) players but I'm sure they have some very good players from other countries.'' Lightbourne admitted he hadn't ruled out finishing his career in either the States or another part of Europe.

"Obviously I have my family out there now and they're quite settled so that's something I would have to think about,'' he said. "But it's coming to that stage of my career, although I have two years left at Stoke.'' Captain Shannon Burgess is looking forward to leading a Bermuda team containing both Lightbourne and Goater. He was in college when Bermuda enjoyed a good run in the World Cup qualifying in 1992.

"They bring a lot to our team, their skill and experience up front,'' said Burgess who will lead Devonshire Colts in two end-of-season finals. "Having them on the same pitch will be a bonus to us.'' Like old times: Bermudian pros Shawn Goater (left) and Kyle Lightbourne who were brought in from England for tonights match a the National Stadium.