© Reuters 2002

DUBLIN, Jan 23 (Reuters) - Irish winger Mark Kennedy has been reassured by a German sports injury specialist that a hamstring problem will not hamper his push for inclusion in Mick McCarthy's Ireland World Cup squad. In an interview with the Irish Star newspaper, Kennedy said he had been told by Munich-based doctor Muller Wolfhart - who has also treated England striker Michael Owen - he can keep playing despite the injury picked up two weeks ago.

"Muller told me that all I needed was a few days rest and that I can resume training later in the week," he said. "That cleared my mind and that's great." The Dubliner told the paper he is now hoping to return to action with English club side Wolverhampton Wanderers in their first division clash against Barnsley next Tuesday.

Kennedy, 25, has won 33 caps with Ireland, but faces stiff competition for his place from Sunderland's Kevin Kilbane, who impressed during Ireland's qualifying campaign, and Damien Duff, who is enjoying a fine run of form with Blackburn Rovers.