PAUL McAREAVEY is desperate to force his way into Roy Evans' starting line-up even though reserve team football does not seem to be hampering his international career.

The 20-year-old midfielder has almost as many Northern Ireland Under 21 caps as he does first team starts.

Now Macca wants the chance to show Roy Evans what he can do at Second Division level.

It is not a question of the Belfast-born midfielder getting ideas above his station, more a case of wanting to redress the balance of his footballing career.

He said: "It does seem a bit off-balance if you like, in that I've played quite a few games for my country but not for Swindon.

"But I want the chance to change that and I'm working so hard in training in the hope that my opportunity will come.

"I've been involved a bit more in the last couple of games but I'm sure injuries and suspensions have had something to do with that.

"But you have to try and impress the manager when you do get a run out and try and put yourself in his thoughts."

Macca did his upmost to earn a draw on Saturday when he was brought crashing down in the dying seconds and earned his side a penalty.

The Northern Ireland Under-21 international enjoyed almost 25 minutes, his lengthiest outing since he starred in Town's LDV clash at Colchester last month.

The 20-year-old has been on the bench 11 times this year, coming on four times.

After Saturday's run-out at Blackpool, it was back to reserve team action this week but Macca gave Roy Evans another gentle reminder by scoring in Town's 2-2 draw at Cambridge.

He said: "It's amazing what difference enjoying your football can make.

"A year ago I couldn't see a future at the club. I wasn't getting a game and didn't think I was going anywhere.

"But the loan spell I had with Kilkenny was the best thing that could have happened.

"I was given a new deal in the summer and working with the gaffer is great."

And as for the international football, McAreavey is not complaining that one minute he is rubbing shoulders with Northern Ireland colleagues and the next is back competing in the hustle and bustle of the Avon Insurance Combination.

He said: "You just have to get on with it and keep learning.

"It's great playing alongside people like Jeff Whitley and Warren Feeney but regular first team football is what you have to aim for."

Town loan duo Jo Kuffour and Wayne Carlisle have both been cleared to play in Saturday's FA Cup first round clash with Hartlepool United.

Arsene Wenger and Palace's Steve Kember contacted Roy Evans yesterday, paving the way for both men to be included in the squad.