Lawrence suffers minor groin injury

Republic of Ireland midfielder Liam Lawrence has revealed that he suffered a slight groin injury in last night's defeat of Paraguay, but is confident of being available for Friday's match against Algeria.

The Stoke winger scored in the first half of the 2-1 win over the South Americans who are using the game as preparation for the World Cup next month.

Lawrence said: "I've got a slight groin ache, but I'll just have to wait and see. I hope I am involved in every game.

He pointed out that Ireland had to be patient in the game as Paraguay had most of the possession, especially in the second half.

"They had loads of the play and we had to get our two banks of four and sit in to try and stop them getting in behind us.

"I was almost playing like a right wing-back at times. (Stephen) Kelly was tucking in and looking after the wide man tucking in and the full-back was pushing on as a winger so I had to do a lot of defensive work.

"It is asked off you at this level and you have got to do it."