World Cup: Kinsella assured of place

Ireland manager Mick McCarthy has assured Mark Kinsella that he will have a place in Ireland’s World Cup qsuad, providing he remains fit for the rest of the season.

The 29-year-old Charlton captain has been out of action for three months after undergoing knee surgery, but he now looks likely to partner Roy Keane in the Irish midfield next summer.

McCarthy said today: "If Mark is fit, he is definitely going. He is different class as a player and as a character around the place and I want him at the World Cup finals."